Why are Málaga CF fans called “Los Boquerones”?

Málaga CF supporters are widely known as “Los Boquerones” — the anchovies. It is one of Spanish football’s most local nicknames, connecting the club directly to the food, coastline and identity of the city it represents.

What is a boquerón?

A boquerón is an anchovy. In Málaga, boquerones are much more than an ingredient: they are associated with the city’s seafood culture and everyday life along the Costa del Sol.

The nickname has become a shorthand for people from Málaga as well as football supporters. Calling the fans “Los Boquerones” is affectionate, recognisable and proudly local rather than insulting.

Why does the nickname suit Málaga CF?

Football nicknames often make most sense when they belong to the place rather than being invented by a marketing department. “Los Boquerones” works because it reflects:

• Málaga’s Mediterranean coastline;
• the city’s fishing and food traditions;
• an identity immediately understood by locals;
• a sense of humour common in Spanish supporter culture;
• the close relationship between club and city.

It appears in supporter groups, local business promotions, social-media language and ordinary conversation about the team.

Is “Malaguista” the same thing?

Not exactly, although the words overlap.

A Malaguista is a Málaga supporter or someone strongly identified with the club. Los Boquerones is the collective nickname attached to those supporters and, more broadly, to Málaga identity.

You may hear both on matchday:

• “la afición malaguista” — the Málaga-supporting crowd;
• “los boquerones” — the anchovies, meaning Málaga’s people or fans.

What is the fan culture like?

Málaga’s support is notable for its scale and loyalty. The club reached a record 26,550 season-ticket holders for 2024/25 and received far more waiting-list requests than the remaining seats could satisfy.

Support is expressed through scarves, the “Málaga, La Bombonera” anthem, organised singing from the Grada de Animación and the phrase “Puro Malaguismo” — pure Málaga spirit.

Can visitors use the nickname?

Yes. It is a friendly and familiar term. A visitor wearing blue and white, joining the chants and enjoying the day among home supporters will quickly hear it used with pride.

Become a boquerón for the day

Our matchday experience introduces visitors to the local traditions behind the football, not just the seat inside the stadium.

See upcoming Málaga CF fixtures