Aitor Egurrola's number 1 jersey now hanging at the Palau Blaugrana

He is and will always remain a legend, whether it is for those who had the pleasure to watch Aitor Egurrola making saves at the Palau Blaugrana between 1998 and 2022 or those at future games now his number 1 jersey is hanging for all to see at FC Barcelona's hallowed venue. The jersey of the most title-winning sportsman in the Club's history was retired today during an emotional event befitting of the 'octopus'.

The day was full of symbolism and tributes to Egurrola, who felt the warmth of fans during a signing event at the Barça Store before the game. The protagonist of the day also went onto the court prior to the game to receive two awards.

Carmelo Paniagua, president of the Spanish Skating Federation, gave him the RFEP gold medal for his sporting career, and Benjamí Pons, president of the Catalan Skating Federation, also presented him with an award for this career. It wasn't possible to present either award at the respective federation galas, so Egurrola received his recognition to the applause of the crowd filling the Palau Blaugrana.

Egurrola watched the Barça v Alcoy play-off from the director's box alongside president Joan Laporta, and after the game, the tribute began with a live performance from singer Víctor Arbelo. The 'octopus' walked onto the court through a guard of honour from his former teammates and the current FC Barcelona team.

During an event with Aleix Santacana as master of ceremonies, Egurrola was with his family during a look back over his career, with the big screen playing tributes from Carlos Figueroa (the coach who gave him his debut) and Carlitos López (both scorer of the first goal against Egurrola in the OK Liga and a former teammate at Barça from 2004 to 2011). Carles Folguera (Barça keeper from 1995 to 2003) also paid his tribute.

The 78 trophies won by Barça's most title-winning sportsperson also formed part of the event, brought on by youth players and first team players, creating a wonderful image on the Palau court.

Then the big moment arrived, Beto Borregán, whose jersey was the only hockey jersey hanging in the Palau to date, presented Egurrola with a stick designed for the occasion, which he then used to remove the sheet covering the number one jersey that has gone down in history.

The tribute ended with the crowd on their feet and a final lap of honour by legend Egurrola at the venue he can call home and where he will always be welcome.