Press release -
From the Arctic Circle to the Metropolitano: Bodø/Glimt is ready to take on Atlético Madrid
On Wednesday night, the Champions League bridges extremes as Bodø/Glimt travel from the far north of Norway to the heart of the Spanish capital to face Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano. Built on "Coraje y Corazón", Courage and Heart, Atlético Madrid will host the only team coming from north of the Arctic circle. Not only that, the Metropolitano itself has more seats than the entire population of Bodø!
Only 53,000 people live in the small Arctic city of Bodø, and Aspmyra, the home stadium, has space for just 8000 fans. There are no billionaires financing these players, just pure passion.
So how can a small team above the Arctic circle qualify for the best League in Europe? Is it the coastal landscape and harsh winds that made them strong? Is it the fresh water or access to sea food? Or is it the local people and culture that has bred these strong and talented players?
Owned by the members
Norwegian football club Bodø/Glimt brought UEFA Champions League north of the Arctic Circle for the very first time. The club's success is not only a story about how greatness can grow in the most unlikely places, it's also a story about a progressive city, full of determined and creative people. The city went wild when Glimt fulfilled its dream of making it to the UEFA Champions League.
Watch the film here: Bodø Glimt in Champions League
On the verge of bankrupcy
Back in 2010, the club was on the verge of bankruptcy, players sometimes went months without salary, and the Northern Norwegians were forced to get creative to save their favourite team.Locals roamed the city for empty bottles to collect for deposit money, fishermen donated fish to the club to sell for profit, the local handball team donated its ticket revenue to Bodø/Glimt, and a massive fundraising push was announced on the local radio.
Fast-forward to 2025, and the team stands as the richest club in the Norwegian league, all thanks to its focus on developing local players and sporting success.
Spanish Royals receive special gift
We are proud of Bodø/Glimt and also had a special moment at FITUR 2026 when the King and Queen of Spain visited Norway’s stand. With the upcoming match between Atlético de Madrid and Bodø/Glimt in mind, we presented them with the team scarf.
They were so kind and gracious, although we understand if they switch colors to red, white and blue on Wednesday!
About Bodø
It's not just the football culture that brings color and energy to the city of Bodø – its vibrant arts and culture scene adds even more life. In 2024, the city proudly held the title of European Capital of Culture.
Bodø has lots to offer, from great food to restaurants, hotels, lots of outdoors activities and stunning nature.The city centre is within easy reach of many nature experiences, including several national parks and Saltraumen, the world's strongest maelstrom. The Nordland Railway line has its end station in Bodø, and the Norwegian Coastal Route Hurtigruten calls in the city every day. The airport is very close by, actually within walking distance of the city centre.
Whether you come to see football or want to explore this amazing region-- a warm welcome to Bodø!
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