This weekend, the capital of Lanzarote celebrated the conclusion of its patron saint festivities with the final of the LVI San Ginés Tournament 2025, recognised as the oldest summer football championship in the Canary Islands. The spotlight was on the Unión Deportiva Lanzarote, who emerged victorious after defeating the Xerez Club Deportivo in a thrilling penalty shootout.
The red-and-white victory marks their third consecutive win of the pre-season, achieving a clean sweep of victories under the guidance of their new manager, Ángel López, and his coaching staff. The team rounded off a summer training period defined by impressive on-field performances and strong support from their fans.
The match between UD Lanzarote and Xerez CD kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final minute. After a closely contested game, a penalty shootout was required to determine the champion. The effectiveness of the Lanzarote team from the penalty spot proved decisive, securing the title at home before an enthusiastic crowd that filled the stands of the Ciudad Deportiva de Lanzarote.
This sporting event was part of the Fiestas de San Ginés, dedicated to the patron saint of Arrecife, which this year featured an enhanced programme of sporting, cultural, and musical activities.
Institutional Recognition
The Mayor of Arrecife, Yonathan de León, who was absent from the island during the final, conveyed his congratulations to UD Lanzarote and all participating teams. He also recalled that in his youth he wore the red-and-white shirt, emphasising the footballing tradition of the capital and the importance of keeping this tournament alive.
Similarly, the councillor for Tourism, Commerce, and Sports, Eli Merino Betancor, closely followed each match of the tournament. After the final, she expressed her gratitude to the participating clubs and reiterated the council’s commitment to ensuring the tournament continues in future editions.
The San Ginés Tournament 2025 featured teams such as UD San Sebastián de los Reyes, CD Tenerife B, and Xerez CD in the men’s category. Additionally, in the women’s triangular competition, players from Orientación Marítima, Inter Playa Honda, and CD Tinajo showcased women’s football as part of the festive programme.
The organisation also highlighted the support received from the Inter-Island Football Federation of Las Palmas, the Uco Arrocha Seminar, the Referees Committee, the Island Sports Service, as well as the Centres for Arts, Culture and Tourism (Cacts) and the Lanzarote Society for External Promotion (SPEL).
Dinner and Closing Ceremony
Following the final, the Arrecife City Council hosted a celebration for the over 400 athletes who participated in the tournament. Players, coaches, officials, and representatives of the organising committee shared a dinner in the Lanzarote capital, marking a golden finale to the championship.
