Leeds United Fans in Fuerteventura: A Matchday Tradition
Leeds United fans have a unique way of staying connected to their beloved team, even when they find themselves far from home. For those vacationing in Fuerteventura, a popular Canary Islands destination, the challenge of finding a place to watch a pre-season friendly can be daunting. Many bars lack the necessary LUTV subscription, and the enthusiasm for screening these matches is often minimal. However, a vibrant community of Leeds supporters has found a lifeline in the northern coastal resort town of Corralejo.
The Leeds United Supporters’ Club (LUSC) Fuerteventura
Founded by John Holliday, a former season ticket holder at Elland Road, the Leeds United Supporters’ Club (LUSC) Fuerteventura serves as a beacon for fans in the area. John and his wife made the move to Fuerteventura 15 years ago, seeking a change in lifestyle. With a passion for Leeds United that spans decades, John decided to create a supporters’ branch to foster camaraderie among fans and provide a space for them to gather during matchdays.
The York: A Hub for Fans
The chosen venue for matchdays is The York, a cozy bar located on Calle Juan de Austria. Despite its limited seating—around 25 chairs—the bar often sees a lively turnout of Leeds fans, sometimes doubling the number of available seats. “We have about a dozen local fans, but many others from across the island join us,” John explains. The atmosphere is electric, filled with laughter, banter, and shared stories about their experiences at Elland Road.
Matchday Atmosphere
The camaraderie among Leeds fans is palpable, even when the team faces tough opponents. John recalls a particularly memorable day when 65 fans gathered to watch a FA Cup match against Harrogate Town. “The atmosphere is always good, even if we lose,” he shares. Fans exchange stories about their favorite players, where they sit at Elland Road, and their journeys as supporters.
During a match against Tottenham, a group of 15 fans who had never met in person came together for a holiday on the island, united by their love for Leeds. On that day, the bar was packed with 64 fans, showcasing the strong community spirit that thrives among Leeds supporters.
Upcoming Pre-Season Challenges
As Leeds United prepares for their pre-season tour in America, fans in Fuerteventura face the challenge of accommodating different kick-off times. With matches scheduled for late night in the UK, John assures that all pre-season friendlies will be shown at The York, although the timing may be tricky for some. “We’re in the same time zone as the UK, but we’re five hours ahead of the east coast of the US,” he notes.
The upcoming matches against Wrexham and Sunderland will kick off at 12:30 AM UK time, while the highly anticipated game against Liverpool will be at 8 PM UK time. Despite the challenges, John remains optimistic about the turnout, emphasizing the importance of community and connection among fans.
Staying Connected
To keep fans informed, LUSC Fuerteventura maintains a Facebook page where supporters can check for updates on match screenings. A permanent flag hangs in The York, symbolizing the unwavering spirit of Leeds fans in the area. As John puts it, “Walking around town, Leeds fans are always spoken to and told where to watch games.” This sense of belonging and community is what makes the experience of being a Leeds supporter in Fuerteventura truly special.
Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist, the Leeds United Supporters’ Club in Fuerteventura offers a welcoming environment for fans to come together, share their passion for the team, and create lasting memories.
