The league was founded in 1929 and is contested by 20 clubs across a 38-game season. Real Madrid and Barcelona have dominated for much of the league's history, though Atletico Madrid have emerged as a genuine title challenger in recent years, winning the league in 2014 and 2021.

La Liga has been home to legendary players including Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Xavi and Iniesta. The rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona — known as El Clásico — is one of the most watched club fixtures in world football, attracting a global television audience of over 600 million.

Spanish clubs have been dominant in European competition, with Real Madrid winning the Champions League five times between 2014 and 2024. The bottom three clubs are relegated each season, while the top four qualify for the Champions League.