Athletic Club president apologises for his reaction at the assembly

Athletic Club president Jon Uriarte apologised for his defensive reaction during the shareholders' assembly, clarifying he didn't intend to show anger at members' contributions.

Jon Uriarte, president of Athletic Club, apologised for his heated reaction during the club's shareholders' assembly held at the Euskalduna venue. After some members made comments he found troubling—particularly an insinuation that first-team players had deliberately underperformed last season—Uriarte responded defensively, which he later regretted.

After the assembly concluded, Uriarte clarified his state of mind, joking that he had consumed cola and suggesting the caffeine may have affected his demeanour. He stressed that his anger was not directed at the members themselves but at the specific claim that players had downed tools, which he firmly denied. "The players and coaching staff are the first who want the best results," he said, noting that they are deeply affected when targets are missed.

Uriarte concluded by publicly apologising to any members who felt upset by his tone, emphasising that he was grateful for their bravery in speaking up and their commitment to the club.