Carlos Alberto Babington, widely known by his nickname “El Inglés,” is a celebrated figure in Argentine football, not only for his dazzling performances on the pitch but also for his remarkable contributions as a manager and later as a president. Born on September 20, 1949, in Buenos Aires, Babington’s life and career have been a fascinating blend of rich heritage, extraordinary talent, and unwavering loyalty to a club that became synonymous with his name: Club Atlético Huracán.
To understand the story of Carlos Babington, one must first acknowledge the intriguing ancestry that gave him his famous nickname. Babington’s great-grandfather, Benjamin, was an Englishman whose lineage traces back to William Babington, a figure memorialized in St. Paul’s Cathedral. This heritage was a defining feature of Carlos’s identity, earning him a moniker that followed him throughout his life and career.
Babington’s professional journey began at Club Atlético Huracán in 1969. It was here, in the vibrant footballing landscape of Buenos Aires, that he honed his skills as an attacking midfielder. Babington was not just a player; he was a magician on the pitch, a maestro orchestrating play with vision, technical brilliance, and an uncanny ability to score goals.
Arguably, the pinnacle of Babington’s playing career came during the 1973 Metropolitano championship. Under the guidance of none other than César Luis Menotti, Huracán assembled a squad that would go down in history as one of Argentina’s finest. Babington played alongside icons such as René Houseman, Miguel Brindisi, and Omar Larrosa, forming a formidable attacking force.
The team’s fluid, attacking style of play captivated fans and analysts alike. Babington, as a key architect of this success, was pivotal, contributing crucial goals and assists while showcasing a cerebral understanding of the game. It was a season that etched his name in the annals of Argentine football history. As things turned out, Babington’s exploits with Huracán earned him a place in the Argentina national team, and he represented his country at the 1974 FIFA World Cup in West Germany. While the tournament did not yield the ultimate prize for Argentina, Babington’s inclusion highlighted his status as one of the nation’s premier talents during that era.
In 1974, Babington embarked on a European adventure, joining SG Wattenscheid 09 in Germany. The move showcased his desire to test himself in a new environment and brought him closer to the land of his ancestors. It is worth noting that he had also entertained an offer from Stoke City, a club in England, which underscored the allure of his English roots.
Though his time in Europe was relatively brief, it demonstrated Babington’s adaptability and his ability to bring his flair and intelligence to different footballing cultures. Never forgetting his roots, Babington eventually returned to Huracán in 1979, reaffirming his loyalty to the club where his heart lay, and his second stint with the club was equally fruitful as he continued to mesmerize fans with his skill and eye for goal. Over two spells, Babington scored an impressive 126 goals for the club, a testament to his enduring quality and connection with Huracán.
In 1982, Babington moved to the United States to play for the Tampa Bay Rowdies before heading to Colombia to represent Atlético Junior. However, personal matters prompted him to retire from professional football in 1983, bringing an end to a playing career that spanned continents and left an indelible mark on all who witnessed his talents. For many footballers, retirement marks a departure from the game they love, but for Babington it was merely the beginning of a new chapter as he transitioned seamlessly into management, taking charge of clubs such as Platense, Banfield, Racing Club, and River Plate, among others.
However, it was with Huracán that Babington truly made his mark as a manager. He guided the club to two second-division championships, first in the 1989–90 season and again in 1999–2000, steering them back to the Primera División on both occasions. These triumphs further cemented his legacy at the club, showcasing his tactical acumen and deep understanding of the game.
In 2006, Babington took on a new challenge, assuming the presidency of Huracán. His tenure as president was marked by both success and adversity. Under his leadership, Huracán achieved yet another promotion to the Primera División, a reflection of his commitment to the club’s growth and stability. However, football, like life, is often unpredictable, and despite his best efforts, Huracán faced relegation in the 2010–11 season, a bitter pill for Babington and the club’s devoted supporters. Nonetheless, his impact on Huracán as a player, manager, and president remains unparalleled.
Now, what sets Babington apart is the unique trifecta of roles he has fulfilled at Huracán. Alongside Daniel Passarella of River Plate, he holds the distinction of being one of the few individuals in Argentine football to serve a single club as a player, manager, and president. This remarkable achievement speaks volumes about his loyalty, passion, and enduring connection to the club that shaped his identity.