Uriarte receives sharp criticism

Athletic Bilbao president Uriarte faced shareholder criticism at the annual assembly, with 37% disapproving of his management—double last year's 17%.

Athletic Bilbao held its annual shareholders' assembly at the Euskalduna, where president Uriarte's management came under scrutiny. The board's performance report received 329 votes in favour, 210 against, and 28 abstentions—a 37% disapproval rate, more than double the 17% recorded in 2025.

The assembly approved a budget of €152.6 million for the 2026–27 season, down €40 million from the previous year's record €192.9 million. The drop reflects reduced income from competitions and broadcasting rights following Athletic's Champions League campaign. The club plans to offset part of the shortfall with €15.3 million from player sales and loans.

The board defended spending increases of €5.2 million on personnel as part of a talent acquisition and retention strategy. Uriarte outlined stadium improvements at San Mamés and Lezama, with €16 million allocated across renovations and technology upgrades. UEFA sanctions for crowd disorder fell sharply from €50,000 to €2,750.