Founded in 1908 in the municipality of Anderlecht, Brussels Capital-Region, Royal Sporting Club Anderlecht began life as a modest local side that spent its early decades moving between the top flight and lower divisions — earning the nickname "the lift club" from Brussels rivals. Promotion in 1935 marked a turning point: the club has played in the Belgian first division continuously ever since.
The post-war era launched a sustained period of domestic dominance. Anderlecht claimed their first league title in 1946–47 and went on to win six more championships between 1949–50 and 1955–56. The 1960s brought perhaps the most celebrated chapter in the club's history, as they won five consecutive Belgian titles from 1963–64 to 1967–68 — a national record that still stands — with Paul Van Himst at the heart of the team.
European success followed in the 1970s and early 1980s. Anderlecht won the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup in 1975–76 and 1977–78, defeating West Ham United and Austria Wien respectively, and claimed the UEFA Super Cup on both occasions. They added a UEFA Cup title in 1982–83, beating Benfica in the final. In total the club holds five European trophies, placing them among the continent's historically significant clubs.
Anderlecht's all-time record stands at 34 Belgian league titles, nine Belgian Cups, and consistent European participation stretching back to 1964–65. Their long-standing rivalries with Club Brugge and Standard Liège define much of the drama in Belgian domestic football. The club plays in purple and white at Lotto Park, located within Anderlecht's Astrid Park.