ABOUT US

A global foundation built on the belief that sport can educate, include and transform lives.

1997
The beginning of a global mission
Our history

A famous name.
A different kind of legacy.

The Real Madrid Foundation was established in 1997 as the social and educational arm of Real Madrid Club de Fútbol.

While Real Madrid is recognised around the world for its sporting achievements, the Foundation has a very different purpose: using the power of sport to improve lives.

Over nearly three decades, that commitment has grown into an international network of educational and social initiatives supporting children, young people and vulnerable communities.

Football and basketball are the tools. Education, inclusion and personal development are the goals.

The Foundation’s greatest achievements aren’t measured on a scoreboard.
110+ Countries reached through Foundation programs, projects and activities
1,373 Programs, projects and activities during the 2025–26 season
400k+ People and family members supported during the 2025–26 season

Figures reported by the Real Madrid Foundation for the 2025–26 season. Official Foundation report.

Beyond the numbers

Real people.
Real opportunities.

The Foundation’s international work extends far beyond coaching sessions. Through local partnerships, sport becomes part of a wider effort to support education, wellbeing, inclusion and stronger communities.

01 / EDUCATION

Learning beyond the classroom

Supporting children’s development through educational sport, with some international projects also providing academic support and other learning opportunities.

02 / INCLUSION

Reaching those facing barriers

Creating opportunities for children experiencing disadvantage, displacement, disability or social exclusion.

03 / WELLBEING

Supporting the whole person

Promoting healthy habits, confidence and connection, with additional health, nutrition or family support available in some projects.

The message every family should hear

Football is for everyone.
Not just the best.

You don’t need to be a talented footballer, have years of experience or dream of playing professionally to belong in a Social Sports School.

An important distinction

This is not a scouting program.

The Real Madrid Foundation’s Social Sports Schools are educational and inclusive programs, not professional football academies or talent identification pathways.

Children are not selected based on their football ability. There are no trials, no requirement for previous experience and no expectation that participants will become professional players.

The focus is on helping each child develop at their own pace, build confidence, enjoy being active and feel part of something positive.

Every child.
Every ability.
Every opportunity.
01 No trials or talent selection
02 Beginners and experienced players welcome
03 Disability and additional support needs welcomed
04 Individual progress over results
Education through sport

The game is the tool.
The child is the priority.

The Foundation believes sport can help children learn lessons that stay with them long after a session has finished.

Its educational approach encourages participation, cooperation, respect, personal responsibility and healthy habits, while recognising that children develop in different ways and at different speeds.

Success is not simply about mastering a football skill. It is also about growing in confidence, forming connections and feeling valued.

Sport should create opportunities, not barriers.

Education

Using enjoyable sporting experiences to teach skills and attitudes that support personal development.

Inclusion

Creating welcoming environments where children with different abilities and backgrounds can participate and belong.

Social development

Helping participants build relationships, communication skills, confidence and a positive connection with others.

Discover the Foundation

More than football.

Discover more about the Real Madrid Foundation and its commitment to making a difference through sport.

Real Madrid Foundation — video presentation

A global vision. A local impact.

From Madrid
to Lismore.

Through the partnership between the Real Madrid Foundation and Rainbow Roos AU Ltd, the Foundation’s educational approach is coming to children and families across the Northern Rivers.

Social Sports School Lismore combines the Foundation’s internationally developed methodology with Rainbow Roos’ local experience of delivering welcoming, inclusive programs.

Our commitment is to make participation accessible to children of different abilities and backgrounds, including those with disabilities, developmental differences and additional support needs.

We want every child to leave feeling that they belong, that their efforts matter and that football is something they can enjoy.

Continue the story

So how does it all work?

You’ve discovered the history, purpose and worldwide impact of the Real Madrid Foundation. But what does education through sport actually look like when a child steps onto the pitch?

Next: Our Seven Values

Seven values.
One philosophy.

Discover the educational values at the heart of the Foundation’s methodology, and how they help children develop both on and off the football pitch.

Discover Our Seven Values