No matter how many disappointments and blows he endures, Elche CF drives a Primera División fan base that remains steadfast in every category. The loyalty shown by Franjiverde supporters stood out again yesterday in an emotional, beautiful, and exciting moment. Gala Tribute to Fans organized with care and affection by the Federation presided over by David Aranda.
Inside a Gran Teatro packed with fans from across the region, green and white dominated the scene. From the opening moments, emotion rose in rhythm with a batucada from various parts, chanting “Elche! Elche!” as scarves waved in the wind.
The peñas prepared every detail, even the drums mimicking the historic fireworks finale. The Peñas Federation honored the memory of the torchbearer who lights the fuse in memorable matches at altabix and Martnez Valero. This historic supporter has even carried a large palm tree to stadiums where Elche plays, turning a local symbol into a nationwide emblem across Spain.
Everything is prepared for the Fan Respect Grand Gala on Elche CF’s Centennial Anniversary
JA Galvanized
A thousand scarves were distributed to attendees, heartfelt videos were shown, and anecdotes recalled about the enduring figure of the fan known as “Jove Elx,” who once had an infamous exchange with the Police, as told by Jero Anton.
David Aranda hosted nearly a thousand supporters, while the mayor highlighted the fans as a central part of the club’s century-long history.
Special memories were shared about the founding chairman of the Franjiverde entity in 1923. Mario Rodriguez Irles was represented by his grandchildren, with reflections also touching on the second president, Salvador Ramos, who stood with the community. The federation also paid tribute to the six Elche presidents who guided the club in the First Division: José Esquitino, Manuel Martínez Valero, Diego Quiles, José Sánchez Riquelme, José Sepulcre, and Joaquín Buitrago.
Other former leaders such as Juan Serrano, Francisco Borja, Antonio Aledo, Francisco Climent, and Anselmo Navarro were acknowledged for their ongoing connection to the club’s unfolding history.
The Peñas Federation also highlighted the women’s section, the club’s youth teams, Elche Genuine, and Elche Handball Club when rallying support in other competitions.
Regional police, National Police, political parties, and local municipalities from Rafal, Novelda, and Monforte del Cid attended, with the Valencian Community Delegation to Peñas joining in unity at the national level.
It was a night to set aside sorrow and celebrate. Instead of a minute of silence, the audience embraced a lively atmosphere that turned the Gran Teatro into a celebration reminiscent of the Martínez Valero stadium—full of energy and sound.
David Generelo, captain of the 2013 promotion to the First Division, and the coaches Fran Escriba and others contributed congratulatory messages via videos. The evening echoed the Centennial and the anthem “Mucho Elche” as memories were shared alongside newer achievements.
The veterans who once brought glory to the green strip were represented by prominent figures from past eras, including Miguel Quirant, Nino, Lezcano, Lico, Carlos Maciá Bonet, Paco Bonet, Pepe Díez Guilabert, Edu Albacar, Paco García, Adolfo Soto, Nando, Rodri, Crespín and others who shaped the club’s enduring identity.
Attention also turned to the club’s current leadership. The owner Christian Bragarnik was present, with the staff and technical team led by Sebastián Beccacece, general manager Peter Schinocca, Nicole Bragarnik, and the organization’s secretary Sergio Mantecon, among many others, all contributing to the ongoing effort to sustain Elche’s profile.
The night closed with remarks from Carlos Mazón, the Speaker of the Alicante State Assembly, who reaffirmed a commitment to keep Elche fans connected to the First Division, regardless of the competition tier. It stood as a historic celebration whose memories will endure for years to come.