Mediterranean League - Regional Leagues

Regional Leagues

The Spanish Civil War, which began in July 1936, left Spain divided. Several La Liga clubs, including Sevilla FC, Real Betis, Real Sociedad, Athletic Bilbao, Celta de Vigo and Deportivo de La Coruña found themselves in areas under the control of Franco.

The Republicans controlled three major cities - Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia - and much of the surrounding countryside. They also controlled much of the Levante coast. As a result of this divide, La Liga was suspended. However during late 1936, some regional leagues continued to be organised in the Republican areas. The Campeonato Levante featured teams from Valencia and Murcia. Participating teams included Valencia FC, Levante FC, Gimnàstico FC, Hércules CF, Murcia FC and FC Cartagena. Valencia FC emerged as champions with 13 points.

The Campionat de Catalunya was also contested between CE Espanyol, FC Barcelona, Girona FC, Granollers SC, CE Sabadell FC and CF Badalona. Both Madrid CF and Athletic Madrid had applied to join the Campionat de Catalunya, but their application was rejected by FC Barcelona. CE Espanyol emerged as champions with 14 points.