Tottenham Hotspur Football Clubknown throughout the world as Spurs, is one of England’s most prominent and distinctive footballing institutions. Based in North London, the club has an illustrious past marked by innovation, novelty and enduring traditions that define its identity both on and off the pitch.
Origins and early success
Tottenham Hotspur was founded in 1882 by boys from Hotspur Grammar School and members of the local cricket club. The name “Hotspur” was inspired by Sir Henry Percy, known as Harry Hotspur, a medieval knight famous for his courage. Amazingly, the club made history in 1901 when they won the FA Cup, the only non-League team to do so since the Football League was established in 1888. This remains one of the most fascinating achievements in English football.
The spirit of “To dare is to do”
The club’s Latin motto, To dare is to do (“to dare is to do”) perfectly captures Spurs’ bold style and ambition. This philosophy was embodied in their celebrated 1960-61 season, when Tottenham became the first club in the 20th century to achieve the League and FA Cup double, a feat that permanently etched them into football history.
European pioneers
Spurs have long been pioneers in European football. In 1963 they became the first British team to win a major European trophy, lifting the European Cup Winners’ Cup. They won the UEFA Cup twice, in 1972 (as first champions) and again in 1984, becoming the first British club to claim two different European titles.
The home of White Hart Lane and beyond
Tottenham was home to White Hart Lane for 118 years before moving to the state-of-the-art Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in 2019. The new venue, with a capacity of over 62,000, is one of the most advanced in the world, with a retractable pitch and hosts major NFL matches, concerts and other events.
Legendary figures and memorable eras
Under manager Bill Nicholson in the 1950s and 1960s, Tottenham established their golden era, achieving domestic and European success while promoting an attacking style. Iconic players such as Jimmy Greaves, Glenn Hoddle and more recently Harry Kane i Heung-min Son they have defined generations and reflected Spurs’ enduring charisma and talent
Rivalries and culture
Tottenham’s fierce rivalry with Arsenal, known worldwide as the North London Derby, is one of football’s most passionate rivalries, fueled by geography and history. Spurs fans, often referred to as ‘the Lilywhites’ due to the team’s traditional white and blue kit, are known for their loyalty and their powerful anthem ‘Oh When the Spurs’, which echoes through the stadium on match days.
Modern ambition
As a founding member of the Premier League in 1992, Tottenham continue to balance tradition and progress. They reached their first UEFA Champions League final in 2019, a testament to its modern revival. Today, with world-class facilities, international stars and a fan base that spans every continent, Spurs embody a blend of heritage and innovation that keeps them among football’s elite.
Tottenham Hotspur, in all eras, has remained true to its motto: always daring, always striving and always inspiring the world of football.
