A new documentary released Thursday reveals the life of Col. Antonio Ortega Gutiérrez, a Republican military officer and the "hidden president" of Real Madrid [1].
The film explores the intersection of sports and conflict during one of Spain's most volatile eras. By uncovering Ortega's role, the production seeks to rescue a figure from historical oblivion who operated at the highest levels of both military and athletic leadership [1], [2].
Produced by DocumentaRTVE, the film titled "Ortega" premiered on La 2 and the RTVE Play platform on July 15, 2026 [1]. The release coincides with the 90th anniversary of the start of the Spanish Civil War, which began on July 17, 1936 [1], [3].
Ortega is described as one of the most prominent military figures of the Republican army who remained loyal to the legitimate government of the Republic, RTVE Noticias said [1]. Despite his leadership role, the documentary notes that Real Madrid has never officially recognized his mandate [1].
"The documentary 'Ortega' looks back at one of the most singular and, at the same time, most forgotten characters of the Republican side," El Mundo said [2]. The narrative focuses on Ortega's efforts to navigate the complexities of war while maintaining the stability of the football club.
The production uses historical archives to reconstruct the environment of 1936, specifically highlighting the military and political pressures faced by those loyal to the Republic. The film serves as a historical recovery project, aiming to provide a complete picture of a man whose contributions were erased from the club's official records [1], [2].
“Antonio Ortega was one of the most prominent military figures of the Republican army.”
The emergence of this documentary highlights the ongoing effort in Spain to reconcile historical memory with institutional records. By documenting a 'hidden' presidency at a global institution like Real Madrid, the film underscores how political purges during and after the Spanish Civil War systematically erased individuals from public and corporate histories based on their ideological loyalty to the Republic.
