Honoring Laurie Cunningham: A Legacy in Spanish Football

The name of Laurie Cunningham resonates once again in Vallecas. Thirty-six years after his passing, Spanish football pays tribute to him during the match between Rayo Vallecano and Real Madrid, part of the 12th matchday of La Liga.

Sergio Cunningham, the son of the former English footballer, along with his mother, was presented with jerseys from both Madrid clubs, adorned with Laurie’s name and number, by Pirri (Honorary President of Real Madrid) and Martín Presa (President of Rayo Vallecano). This initiative, spearheaded by Real Madrid, acknowledges Cunningham’s contributions to both clubs. “Butragueño called me, and I spoke with him to confirm it,” Sergio shared with MARCA.

The Rayo Vallecano club invited Sergio and his mother to the presidential box to experience the match. However, the planned honorary kick-off could not take place due to protocol issues, a situation that had also occurred during the same match last year.

Laurie Cunningham joined Real Madrid in 1979 from West Bromwich Albion, becoming the first British player to wear the iconic white jersey. The previous year, he made history as the first black player to represent the England national team.

His arrival in Spain had a significant social impact. At a time when racism was prevalent in football stadiums, Cunningham emerged with charisma and a fighting spirit. In his first season with Real Madrid, he won both the league and the Copa del Rey, delivering memorable performances, including a standout display at Camp Nou.

After leaving Chamartín, he played for Rayo Vallecano in the 1988-89 season, playing a crucial role in their promotion to the top division. He was embraced by the community from day one. This bond endured even after his untimely death at the age of 33, while he was still connected to the Rayo Vallecano entity. In fact, his son, Sergio, chose to settle in Vallecas to remain close to the stadium and the place where his father felt like a footballer during his final season.