Buenos Aires, a city of contrasts and vibrant energy, is undeniably a football city. With an astonishing 36 stadiums capable of holding at least 10,000 spectators, it surpasses any other metropolis globally in its football infrastructure. This sheer number underscores the profound role football plays in Argentine culture; a 24/7 obsession that rivals even the influence of the Catholic Church. Buenos Aires serves as the epicenter of South American football, a legacy built on a rich and diverse history. The origins of Argentinian football are a fascinating mix of influences. Founded in November 1887 by British immigrants, Quilmes, from Greater Buenos Aires, is Argentina's oldest continuously active club. River Plate, established in May 1901, holds the distinction of being the oldest club still playing in the Primera División. Their rise spurred the formation of numerous other clubs within the city and its surrounding province, many established between 1901 and 1908, including Racing Club and Independiente from Avellaneda, Argentinos Juniors, Barracas, Boca Juniors, Huracán, San Lorenzo, and Estudiantes from La Plata. These early clubs weren't solely the product of British influence; Italian immigrants, the church, railway workers, and even employees of a high-end fashion store all contributed to the growth of the game. The city's socioeconomic disparities are reflected in its football culture. La Boca, home to Boca Juniors, stands as one of the most famous barrios, known for its vibrant colours and the passion of its working-class supporters. Founded by Italian immigrants, Boca Juniors—a club of the people—maintains the 50+1% ownership model, similar to German clubs. While La Bombonera stadium radiates a colourful atmosphere, the barrio itself faces challenges, including a relatively high crime rate. Despite this, Boca's fans are some of the most fervent in the world, a passion that, unfortunately, sometimes manifests as violence. The rivalry between Boca Juniors and River Plate defines Argentinian football. While River Plate's fan base is largely affluent, Boca's boasts a predominantly working-class following. This contrast fuels the intense rivalry, famously epitomized by the 2018 Copa Libertadores final, which was eventually moved to Madrid due to numerous delays and security concerns. This “Superclásico” is considered one of the most passionate and volatile derbies globally, a chaotic blend of smoke, deafening noise, aggression, and occasionally, physical altercations. River and Boca's combined trophy cabinet includes 73 league titles and 10 Copa Libertadores, showcasing their dominance. Both clubs consistently attract massive crowds, with River averaging 83,754 and Boca 57,200 in 2024, and their youth academies are renowned for producing world-class talent, including players such as Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández, Radamel Falcao, and Gonzalo Higuaín. Beyond the giants, Buenos Aires is home to a variety of clubs, some with substantial followings, others struggling to attract crowds. While River, Boca, San Lorenzo, and Vélez consistently draw substantial attendances, teams like Barracas and Deportivo Riestra see significantly smaller crowds. San Lorenzo, from the bohemian Boedo neighborhood, holds a special place in Argentine hearts, having won the Copa Libertadores in 2014. Huracán, known for selling Osvaldo Ardiles to Tottenham in 1978 and for being managed by World Cup-winning coach César Luis Menotti, has a modest trophy list but a significant international presence. Argentinos Juniors, from La Paternal, boasts the distinction of being Diego Maradona's first professional club, launching the career of one of football's greatest ever players. Vélez Sarsfield, a popular club from Liniers, achieved considerable success in the 2024 season. Uniting all of Buenos Aires' clubs is the unwavering enthusiasm of their supporters. Football is deeply ingrained in the city's culture; children play 'picado'—street football—on any available space, from backstreets and alleyways to wasteland and sidewalks. Graffiti, often highly creative, displays messages of support or rivalry, adding another layer to the city’s passionate football culture. Buenos Aires truly lives and breathes football, a city where passion is not just a characteristic, but an essential part of its very identity.