The City of Brownsville is preparing to host the highly anticipated Charro Days Clásico 2026, as FC Brownsville Gavilanes face off against Gavilanes de Matamoros FC in a thrilling binational matchup. City leaders, team representatives, and community partners gathered at a recent press conference to highlight the significance of the event and what fans can expect.
Now in its third year at the Brownsville Sports Park, the Charro Days Clásico continues to grow in popularity, with organizers anticipating between 3,000 and 4,000 spectators for this year’s match.
“The Charro Days Clásico has become a celebration of sportsmanship and binational camaraderie,” said Brownsville Mayor John Cowen Jr. “This event is much more than a soccer match. It is a celebration of who we are — a binational partnership between the City of Brownsville and the City of Matamoros.”
The annual match has quickly become a cornerstone event of the Charro Days festivities, showcasing not only elite soccer talent but also the deep cultural and historical ties between the sister cities.
City Commissioner for District 3 Gustavo De Leon emphasized the uniqueness of the Brownsville–Matamoros relationship.
“The bond between Brownsville and Matamoros is unique and is something that you cannot find anywhere else,” De Leon said. “This celebration was built on that truth, and every year it grows stronger together. And now, soccer has found a rightful place in that tradition. The Clásico match has become more than just a game. It has become a rivalry of the soul and the heart.”
Brownsville’s passion for soccer runs deep. Over the last two decades, local high schools have secured more than six state soccer championships — a testament to the community’s dedication to the sport.
“It just shows you how much this community has passion for the beautiful game,” said Nathan Burkhart, Director of the Brownsville Convention and Visitors Bureau. Burkhart also announced that a new traveling trophy will debut this year. The winning team’s name will be etched onto the trophy annually before it is passed on to the next champion, further cementing the match’s legacy.
Soccer enthusiasts from across South Texas and beyond are invited to witness the action-packed showdown, which promises a display of skill, strategy, and passion on the field.
Tickets for the FC Brownsville vs. Gavilanes FC – Charro Days Clásico 2026 are now on sale and can be purchased at: https://visitbtx.com/charro-days-classic/
Fans are encouraged to come out, support their favorite team, and experience the electric atmosphere that only a live soccer match can deliver as Brownsville and Matamoros continue their storied tradition through the beautiful game.
