Bartomeu Terradas: The Founding Father and Second President of FC Barcelona
In the early days of association football in Spain, few figures were as pivotal to the survival and growth of FC Barcelona as Bartomeu Terradas Brutau. A versatile man of the turn of the century, Terradas served the club in three distinct capacities: as one of its twelve founding members, a competitive forward on the pitch, and the club's second president. His leadership during a period of extreme financial instability ensured that one of the world's most famous sporting institutions did not vanish in its infancy.
Key Facts
- Role: One of the twelve founders of FC Barcelona in 1899.
- Presidency: Served as the 2nd President from April 25, 1901, to September 5, 1902.
- Financial Savior: Became the club's first patron by contributing 1,400 pesetas to prevent bankruptcy.
- On-Field Success: Won the 1900–01 Copa Macaya, the club's first piece of silverware.
- Legacy: Helped establish the Catalan Football Federation.
The Early Days: From Founder to Forward
Born in Barcelona in 1874, Bartomeu Terradas was present at the historic meeting on November 29, 1899, at the Gimnasio Solé, where the establishment of FC Barcelona was formalized. As the club transitioned from an idea to a reality, Terradas stepped onto the pitch as a midfielder and forward.
He made his debut on December 8, 1899, at the old Bonanova Velodrome. In a match characterized by the scarcity of players—only ten were available for the side—Terradas and his teammates secured a 1–0 victory over a team composed of members of the British colony living in Barcelona.
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Leadership and Executive Impact
Terradas transitioned into leadership when he was appointed president on April 25, 1901, following the resignation of Walter Wild. His tenure, which lasted 507 days, was defined by crisis management and structural growth. Facing a dire economic situation, Terradas stepped in as the club's first patron, donating 1,400 pesetas to save FC Barcelona from bankruptcy.
Beyond financial stabilization, Terradas focused on the institutionalization of the sport. He played a key role in creating the Catalan Football Federation, an organization designed to unite Catalan clubs. While Espanyol and FC Internacional initially remained outside the federation, they were incorporated later. Internally, he expanded the club's depth by approving the formation of second and third squads and established the first sports committee, which included figures such as Gamper, Meyer, and Viderkher.
Infrastructure and Silverware
One of Terradas' most enduring achievements as president was securing the funds necessary to construct the second sports field in the club's history. Remarkably, he continued to play while leading the club. He was a member of the squad that won the 1900–01 Copa Macaya, the first trophy in FC Barcelona's history, and even scored a goal during a dominant 18–0 victory over Tarragona.
Departure and Later Years
The trajectory of Terradas' leadership was interrupted by personal tragedy. Following the death of his father, he resigned from the presidency on September 5, 1902, to manage the family business. He continued playing until 1903, finishing his career with 31 appearances for the club.
Although he returned to the club as a member in September 1903 and later served as vice president, Terradas began to distance himself from the organization by 1905. This departure was driven by a philosophical disagreement; as the club and its players moved toward professionalization, Terradas felt that the original amateur concept of the club was being lost.
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Summary of Bartomeu Terradas' Career
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bartomeu Terradas Brutau |
| Lifespan | 1874 – 1948 |
| Presidential Term | April 25, 1901 – September 5, 1902 |
| Playing Position | Forward / Midfielder |
| Total Appearances | 31 |
| Major Honor | Copa Macaya (1900–01) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Bartomeu Terradas?
Bartomeu Terradas was a Spanish footballer and executive who was one of the twelve founders of FC Barcelona in 1899 and served as the club's second president.
How did Terradas save FC Barcelona from bankruptcy?
Terradas became the club's first patron, contributing 1,400 pesetas of his own money to stabilize the club's dire economic situation during his presidency.
What was the first trophy won by FC Barcelona during Terradas' time?
The club won the 1900–01 Copa Macaya, which marked the first piece of silverware in FC Barcelona's history.
Why did Bartomeu Terradas leave the presidency in 1902?
He resigned on September 5, 1902, because the death of his father required him to take over the management of the family business.
Why did Terradas eventually distance himself from the club in 1905?
He felt that the professionalization of the players and the club was eroding the initial amateur concept upon which FC Barcelona was founded.