Reading Football Club, known as “The Royals,” is one of the oldest football clubs in England. Founded in 1871, the club has a long and proud history that spans more than 150 years. Based in Berkshire, Reading has enjoyed spells across the divisions, earning a reputation for attractive football, passionate local support, and a commitment to nurturing talent. The club’s modern identity is shaped by community engagement and a drive to compete at the highest levels.
Wearing their iconic blue and white hoops, Reading have spent much of their history in the second tier of English football, with notable promotions and landmark seasons enhancing their status in the modern era. Their home ground, the Madejski Stadium (now known commercially as the Select Car Leasing Stadium), offers one of the most modern footballing experiences outside the Premier League.
Historic Reading Moments
Reading’s early years were spent outside the Football League, but the club became a regular league fixture in the 20th century. After years in the lower divisions, a breakthrough came in 1986 when Reading won the Third Division title, setting the tone for future ambitions.
However, it was the 2005/06 season that truly transformed the club’s trajectory. Under inspired leadership, Reading stormed to the Championship title with a then-record 106 points — the highest total ever recorded in a single Football League season. Their dominance and consistency across the campaign ensured a historic first promotion to the Premier League, ushering in a new era for The Royals and their supporters.
Reading returned to the Premier League again in 2012, once more as champions of the second tier, further reinforcing their position as one of the best-run clubs of the era in terms of on-pitch performance.
Memorable Moments
Perhaps the most memorable campaign in Reading’s modern history remains their debut Premier League season in 2006/07. The Royals exceeded expectations, finishing in 8th place — an extraordinary achievement for a newly promoted side. Memorable wins against Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool, combined with their fearless approach, earned praise across the football world.
Another highlight came in the 2014/15 FA Cup, when Reading reached the semi-finals for only the second time in their history. Although they were narrowly defeated at Wembley, the cup run rekindled the club’s competitive spirit and brought joy to thousands of travelling fans. Over the years, the club has also earned a reputation for exciting play-off runs and last-minute drama, including multiple seasons where promotion was decided by fine margins.
Stadium Atmosphere
The Select Car Leasing Stadium, originally known as the Madejski Stadium, has been Reading’s home since 1998. With a capacity of just over 24,000, the ground is modern, accessible, and purpose-built for high-level football. Located in the south of the town, it provides an excellent matchday experience with clear views and comfortable seating throughout.
The Eamonn Dolan Stand is home to some of the most vocal supporters, with chants, flags, and banners helping to drive the team forward. While the stadium is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, big games still deliver a lively and memorable environment — particularly during promotion pushes and cup nights.
Ticket Information
Reading tickets are popular among supporters throughout Berkshire and the surrounding areas. High-demand matches, such as local derbies and promotion deciders, can sell out quickly, while midweek fixtures and cup ties continue to draw strong support from a loyal base.
SafeTicketCompare lists all available Reading FC tickets, offering supporters an easy and secure way to find both home and away seats. Whether you're watching The Royals at their modern stadium or following them across the country, matchday promises professionalism, passion, and a touch of history.
Key Rivalries
Reading’s most notable rivalry is with Oxford United, known as the Thames Valley Derby. While the sides have met less frequently in recent decades, the fixture remains highly anticipated when scheduled. The club has also fostered rivalries with Swindon Town and Aldershot Town, based on geographic proximity and historical contests.
