The Peña Barcelonista de Talavera la Real, part of the Federación de Peñas Barcelonistas Extremeñas, experienced a very special day with the 1st Valentín Valle Franco Memorial. The Barça supporters’ club organized this tribute to one of its founders and long-time president, Valentín Valle Franco, who passed away just over a year ago, at the end of December 2024.
Futsal between penyes and tribute at the PB Talavera la Real site
The first part of the Memorial consisted of a futsal tournament held at the municipal sports hall, featuring four teams: PB Talavera la Real, Former Legends of PB Talavera la Real, Peña Atlético de Madrid de Talavera la Real, and Peña Madridista de Talavera la Real. Thus, local Madrid and Atlético fans contributed to the atmosphere of respect and emotion that prevailed throughout the day. In the end, the winner was the Atlético de Madrid supporters’ club, defeating the PB Talavera la Real Legends team.
Afterwards, the event moved to the penya’s site, where around one hundred people gathered. There, the futsal tournament trophies were awarded, and the tribute to Valentín Valle Franco took place. Participants included the president of PB Talavera la Real, José Mari García, and the mayor of Talavera la Real, Manuela Sancho, along with several councillors and representatives from the Provincial Council of Badajoz, which provided the trophies. Several family members of the honouree were also present, such as his brother Antonio Valle, current member number 1 of PB Talavera la Real, whoreceived a commemorative plaque from the club. UD Talavera also collaborated in the event.
A man deeply loved throughout the town
The large presence of organizations and representatives beyond the PB Talavera la Real itself reflects the importance of Valentín Valle Franco in his town. On one hand, he became a true ambassador of Barça passion among the entire population of Talavera la Real, but he was also a great promoter of futsal within the penya, helping its teams start from the bottom and reach the highest categories.
On the other hand, Valentín Valle Franco was deeply involved in the life of Talavera la Real, participating in various initiatives and also serving as member of the Provincial Council of Badajoz. More recently, he was involved in an inflatable company where he created one dedicated to Johan Cruyff, which he made available to the penya, as happened during this tribute. Given the success of the Memorial and the town’s heartfelt response in remembering Valentín Valle Franco, PB Talavera la Real is considering making this initiative an annual event.
