Joan Casals, a life of love for FC Barcelona

Joan Casals (1933-2024), the Barça Grandfather, passed away this Wednesday at the age of 90. Born in Guardiola de Berguedà, Casals has been iconic among Barça supporters since 1984, when he appeared at the Joan Gamper Trophy dressed in a blaugrana jersey and wearing a typical Catalan beret. His similarity to the famous cartoon character created by Valentí Castanys in the 1920s meant that fans were eager to have their picture taken with him.

Casals decided to take the character further, and rapidly became an emblematic part of the fan community, especially among the supporters clubs, where he was a regular feature at events. As the Avi del Barça (Barça Grandfather) he travelled throughout the peninsula for more than 25 years, as long as his health allowed. Indeed, in 2007, Joan Casals was recognised as an official representative of the club at supporters gatherings.

Everyone connected with Barça is in mourning today. Tributes have arrived in the form of messages from all around the world, showing just how sorely missed he is going to be.

Rest in peace, Joan.