The Burnley FC history tells the inspiring journey of the Burnley FC team, from its humble beginnings to becoming a respected force in English football. Guided by the vision of the Burnley FC owner, the club’s progress reflects determination, loyalty, and community spirit that continues to define its place in football history.
Founded
1882
Location
Burnley, Lancashire
Team History
1883 - Present / Burnley Football Club
1882 - 1883 / Rugby Club Burnley Rovers
Nickname
The Clarets - Burnley FC is one of the oldest football clubs in England and has a long history of success. The team’s nickname, “The Clarets,” dates back to the late 19th century when Burnley was known as ‘the claret-and-blue town’ due to its association with claret – a type of red wine.
Burnley FC Origin
The term 'Clarets' first appeared in print on 18 April 1886 when Burnley faced Bolton Wanderers at Turf Moor - their home ground since 1883. It was reported that "there were many thousands present wearing the colors which have become so popular amongst supporters of this club - namely, white shirts with blue collars and cuffs, while red ties formed an effective background." This description perfectly matched what we now know as 'claret and blue,' hence why it became synonymous with Burnley Football Club over time.
In addition to being known for its distinctive color combination in Burnley FC history, it's believed that there are two other possible explanations for how The Clarets got their name: Firstly, during medieval times, soldiers wore scarlet cloaks or tunics called "cloaks" which could be seen from afar – thus making them easy targets! Secondly, some historians believe that fans adopted this nickname because they wanted people outside Lancashire (where most supporters lived) to recognize them by using such a unique moniker rather than just referring to themselves simply as 'Burnley.'
Today The Clarets remain one of England's top Premier League teams, thanks mainly to their passionate fanbase, who continue to support them through thick and thin! Whether you're watching games live at Turf Moor or tuning into matches online from anywhere around the world, you can't help but feel proud whenever you hear those famous words: "Up the Clarets!"
Championships
Premier League / 2
1960, 1921
FA Cup / 1
1914
Premier League - FA Cup Double / 0
Stadium
1883 - Present / Turf Moor
1882 - 1883 / Calder Vale
Current Owner
2015 - Present / Mike Garlick
*Blue is this team’s history
- 1883
- 1960
- 1973
- 2009
- 2014
- 2016
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Burnley FC Formation in 1883
On 10 August, Burnley Football Club played their first-ever match as an association football club against local team Burnley Wanderers, winning 4–0. The team played the match in a blue and white kit, the colors of the former rugby club, at their home ground Calder Vale, which was also adopted from the rugby club. Burnley’s first competitive game was in ... -
Burnley FC Premier Champions in 1960
Burnley endured a tense 1959–60 season in which Tottenham Hotspur and Wolverhampton Wanderers were the other protagonists in the chase for the league title. The team ultimately clinched their second First Division championship on the last day of the season with a 2–1 victory at Manchester City, with goals from Brian Pilkington and Trevor Meredith. Although the team had been ... -
Burnley FC wins its first and only Charity Shield
In 1973: Burnley FC wins its first and only Charity Shield, beating Manchester City 1–0 at Maine Road. Colin Waldron scores the winning goal. -
Burnley FC wins promotion to the Premier League for the first time in its history
In 2009: Burnley FC wins promotion to the Premier League for the first time in its history, by beating Sheffield United 1–0 in the Championship play-off final at Wembley. Wade Elliott scores the only goal of the game. The club is managed by Owen Coyle, who leaves midway through the next season to join Bolton Wanderers -
Burnley FC wins promotion to the Premier League
In 2014: Burnley FC wins promotion back to the Premier League as runners-up of the Championship under manager Sean Dyche. The club also sets a club record of 23 league games unbeaten. Danny Ings and Sam Vokes score 20 goals each -
Burnley FC wins promotion back to the Premier League as champions
In 2016: Burnley FC wins promotion back to the Premier League as champions of the Championship under manager Sean Dyche again. The club also sets a club record of 23 league wins in a season. Andre Gray scores 25 goals and wins the Championship Player of the Year award
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Burnley FC History
The Burnley FC history dates back to 1882, making the Burnley FC team one of the oldest and most respected clubs in English football. Established in the small Lancashire town of Burnley, the club became a founding member of the Football League in 1888, marking the start of its rich football journey. Founded by local businessmen John Yates-Smith and James Anderson, Burnley quickly rose from a regional side to a professional football club with national recognition.
During its early years, the Burnley FC team faced financial and competitive challenges but steadily grew in strength. Their commitment to professional football and community pride helped them remain a vital part of English football history. The club’s identity was built on hard work, resilience, and a deep connection with fans that continues today. With strong leadership from the Burnley FC owner and support from loyal fans, Burnley evolved into a team admired for its fighting spirit and disciplined playstyle.
Burnley’s major success began in the early 20th century of Burnley FC history, when they won the FA Cup in 1914 — a historic victory remembered as one of the club’s proudest moments. Their second FA Cup win in 1921 further established them as one of England’s leading football clubs. The 1959–60 season brought even greater glory, as Burnley won the First Division (now the Premier League) title under the management of Harry Potts.
Burnley Achievements
The Burnley FC team continued to show resilience through the modern era, bouncing back from relegations with determination. They returned to the Premier League in 2016–17 and impressed fans with their disciplined defense and teamwork. Under the leadership of former manager Sean Dyche, Burnley qualified for the Europa League in the 2018–19 season — a remarkable achievement for a club of its size.
Today, with the guidance of the Burnley FC owner and passionate supporters behind them, Burnley continues to compete with pride in English football. The Burnley FC history remains a testament to perseverance, loyalty, and community spirit, proving that success comes not only from trophies but from tradition, dedication, and belief in the game.
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