Racing Santander Players Protest Franco's Regime in 1975
In September 1975, Racing Santander players Aitor Aguirre and Sergio Manzanera staged a silent protest against the executions under Francisco Franco by wearing improvised black armbands made from bootlaces. The duo, a centre-forward and a winger respectively, rejoined their teammates for a pre-match photo before playing a match the next day against Elche.
This protest came in response to Franco's August 1975 decree that expanded anti-terror powers and the application of the death penalty. Eleven members of ETA and FRAP had been convicted of murder and sentenced to death in four tribunals. On September 27, 1975, five men—including Àngel Otaegui, Juan Paredes Manot, Ramón Garcia Sanz, José Luis Sánchez Bravo, and José Humberto Baena—were executed in what became the last use of the death penalty in Spain.
Upon returning to the dressing room, the players encountered a tunnel packed with police who ordered Aguirre and Manzanera to remove their armbands. They refused and continued to play after a brief delay. The match saw Elche equalise, but Aguirre scored a late winner for Racing.
The next day, both players were interrogated. Aguirre faced hostility linked to his Basque identity, and Manzanera was questioned about his motives. Prosecutors sought prison sentences of five years and one day, but the judge opted for fines instead of imprisonment.
Afterwards, the pair faced threats from far-right groups including the Guerrilleros de Cristo Rey. Aguirre, concerned for his family's safety, relocated his wife and children, while Manzanera endured nights filled with fear.
Franco's death on 20 November 1975 marked the start of Spain's transition toward democracy and a reduction in regime repression. Fifty years later, Aguirre and Manzanera reflect on their lifelong bond and take pride in their role in Spain's democratic development. Aguirre later ran a restaurant in Santander, and both remain steadfast in their contribution to the country's freedom.
This article was published by The Guardian on 15 December 2025 as part of Sid Lowe’s La Liga column.
