The Spanish team was received as world champions this Monday in Madrid, where nearly two million people, according to the Government Delegation, accompanied the Reds’ journey after winning the 2026 World Cup with their 1-0 victory over Argentina in the final played in the United States.
After being received by King Felipe VI and the President of the Government, Pedro Sánchez, the players toured the main avenues of the capital in two open-top buses, greeting a wave of fans dressed in the colors of Spain.
The parade concluded in the Plaza de Cibeles with a show in which the footballers were presented one by one, while captain Rodri Hernández, chosen as the best player in the World Cup, raised the trophy and remembered the historic achievement: “We have won the World Cup! And how many World Cups do we have? Two!”
Coach Luis de la Fuente thanked the fans for their support and once again starred in one of the most emotional moments by performing a song by Julio Iglesias, just as he did during the Euro 2024 celebrations.
The party was accompanied by performances by Ana Mena, Lola Índigo, Arde Bogotá and Aitana. Additionally, Colombian singer Shakira, who performed at the half-time show of the final, sent a video message wearing a Spain t-shirt.
A country dedicated to its champions
The scorer of the title goal, Ferran Torres, highlighted the emotion of sharing the success with the Spanish fans and celebrated the enthusiasm that the conquest has awakened among the youngest.
Felipe VI congratulated the team during the reception at the Zarzuela Palace and assured that the victory belongs to all Spaniards.
Throughout the route there were scenes of euphoria, with thousands of flags waving, horns, chants and fans enduring the high temperatures to greet the new world champions.
Argentina also received its runners-up
While Spain celebrated its second star, part of the Argentine team returned to Buenos Aires without Lionel Messi. Despite the cold and rain, thousands of fans came to the airport to thank the team for its efforts.
“I don’t care about the result, I’m here to thank you,” said one of the fans present, reflecting the support of the Albiceleste fans despite the defeat.
Messi, who did not travel with the rest of the delegation, published a message on social networks in which he acknowledged that “the pain is very great” and admitted that it will take time to overcome the defeat.
Spain won the World Cup thanks to Ferran Torres’ goal in the 106th minute of extra time and also dominated the individual awards: Rodri was chosen as the best player of the tournament, Pau Cubarsí received the award for best young footballer and Unai Simón won the Golden Glove after conceding just one goal throughout the competition.
