FCSB: The Rise of a Romanian Giant

From Humble Beginnings to European Glory
In the annals of Romanian football, the name FCSB stands tall as a symbol of passion, perseverance, and unparalleled success. The club's journey from its humble origins to becoming a European powerhouse is a captivating tale of determination and triumph.
Army Roots and the Rise of Steaua
FCSB was born on April 7, 1947, under the name CSA (Central Sports Army). Its primary purpose was to provide a sports outlet for military personnel. The club's early years were spent in lower divisions, gradually climbing the ranks with a mix of talent and raw determination.
In 1961, the club adopted the iconic name "Steaua," meaning "star" in Romanian. This rebranding marked a pivotal moment in Steaua's history, signaling its ambitions to become a force to be reckoned with.
A Golden Era: Domestic and European Dominance
The 1970s and 1980s witnessed the rise of Steaua as a dominant force in Romanian and European football. Led by legendary manager Emerich Jenei, the team boasted a galaxy of stars, including Gheorghe Hagi, Laszlo Bölöni, and Ilie Dumitrescu.
Steaua's domestic dominance was unrivaled, winning a staggering 11 consecutive league titles from 1985 to 1996. On the European stage, the club achieved its greatest triumph in 1986 when it became the first Romanian team to win the European Cup (now UEFA Champions League). The victory over FC Barcelona in the final remains one of the most iconic moments in Romanian football history.
Challenges and a Name Change
The post-communist era brought about new challenges for Steaua. The club underwent several changes in ownership and faced financial struggles. In 2003, a rift between the club's civilian and military factions led to a legal battle over the use of the Steaua name.

In 2004, the civilian faction, led by controversial businessman George Becali, secured the rights to the Steaua name and established a new club known as FC Steaua București.

FCSB's New Identity

In 2017, the Romanian Football Federation ruled that the FCSB club founded in 1947 was the legal successor to CSA Steaua. The civilian faction was forced to change its name to Fotbal Club FCSB, while the military faction retained the Steaua name and continues to compete in the Romanian third division.

Modern Era: Building a New Legacy
FCSB has continued to be a formidable force in Romanian football in recent years. Under former manager Nicolae Dica, the team won consecutive league titles in 2018 and 2019. Since then, FCSB has consistently challenged for trophies, cementing its status as one of Romania's top clubs.
In Europe, FCSB has made its mark in UEFA competitions. The club has qualified for the group stages of the Europa League and has made several appearances in the qualifying rounds of the Champions League. While the European triumphs of the past may seem distant, FCSB remains determined to make its mark on the international stage once again.
More Than Just a Club
FCSB's influence extends far beyond the football pitch. The club plays a pivotal role in Romanian society, promoting community values and supporting charitable initiatives. Its passionate fanbase, known as "Peluza Nord," is one of the most vocal and dedicated in the country.

The story of FCSB is one of resilience, ambition, and unwavering passion. From its humble military roots to its current status as a European giant, the club has left an indelible mark on Romanian football and beyond. As FCSB continues to write new chapters in its illustrious history, one thing is certain: the spirit of the star will forever shine brightly in the hearts of its fans.