ANNAPOLIS, Md. — On July 31, at 12:34 p.m., on a hot, steamy afternoon, a private charter plane touched down at BWI, transporting the popular FC Barcelona soccer team. The players were accompanied by the team president, Joan Laporta, his directors, as well as a large support staff made up of equipment teams, media, doctors, and security.
The team quickly boarded buses while Laporta and his directors boarded SUVs lined side by side on the tarmac. FC Barcelona was provided with an escort from the Maryland State Police to the Westin Hotel in Annapolis.
Barcelona was greeted by adoring fans outside the hotel upon their arrival. Fans were holding up team jerseys in hopes their favorite player would honor them with an autograph.
For the next few days, fans continued to arrive at the hotel and Naval Academy, where the team was practicing, for a sight of their soccer heroes. The crowd of mostly teens grew from a handful to over 100 by the second day in Annapolis. The fans weathered the blistering heat for hours in hopes of a glimpse and autograph of their European heroes.
Moms stopped by and provided the kids with water and food. Despite their unwavering loyalty to the team, there was only a slight chance the team would stop and make an appearance, yet they waited. Their loyalty paid off with a few players stopping for autographs and even Laporta and his directors coming out to chat with the fans.
The team was transported twice a day to the Naval Academy for practice. They were very impressed with the Glen Warner Soccer Facility where they trained, according to staff member Marc Garrell. Friday, August 2, was considered a rest day, and they only practiced in the evening.
During the day, a few visited a local coffee shop, Ceremony, where two lucky fans discovered them and obtained an autograph from fan-favorite Robert Lewandowski. Lewandowski is one of the highest-paid players in the league, with an annual salary of 37.5 million euros, equivalent to over $40 million. The directors toured Washington, D.C., including a tourist favorite, the White House. The rest of the club rested in the hotel.
The team was touring the United States along with other teams in the league during their preseason, providing fans a great opportunity to root for their favorite team and players in the United States without having to go abroad. The tour helps boost the league’s presence in the United States.
Lewandowski stated he was glad to be in the United States. “The games are not only special for the players but for the fans as well. They use this time to practice for the season.”
Before arriving in Maryland, Barcelona played in Orlando, Florida, against Manchester. Barcelona traveled to New Jersey, where they went on to beat rival Real Madrid 2-1 after a short storm delay. Barcelona returned to Maryland for the final game in the area. On August 6, 2024, they went against the Italian club A.C. Milan and tied 2-2.
The team’s visit to Maryland provided fans with unforgettable experiences and showcased the global appeal of FC Barcelona.
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