Spain’s newly crowned world champions have returned home to a hero’s welcome, with Madrid preparing to host a victory parade expected to attract around one million fans after La Roja secured their second FIFA World Cup title.
Captain Rodri proudly lifted the World Cup trophy as the squad disembarked from an Iberia flight at Madrid-Barajas Airport on Monday, less than 24 hours after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey.
A decisive extra-time strike from Ferran Torres ended Spain’s 16-year wait for another world title, adding to the country’s only previous triumph at the 2010 tournament in South Africa.
The champions are scheduled to meet King Felipe VI at the Zarzuela Palace before visiting Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez at La Moncloa. They will then embark on an open-top bus parade through Madrid, culminating in celebrations at the iconic Cibeles Square, where supporters traditionally gather to celebrate Spain’s football successes.
The Spanish capital was already in festive mood after thousands of fans celebrated through the night. By Monday morning, city workers were clearing streets littered with bottles, cans and debris left behind after the jubilant scenes.
Madrid Mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida admitted celebrations had left many residents sleep-deprived but said the occasion deserved the nationwide festivities.
Spain’s latest triumph has also placed the country in football history. Following the women’s World Cup success in 2023, Spain now simultaneously holds both the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup titles for the first time.
The Spanish media hailed the achievement, with sports daily Marca describing the team as “the kings of all-time” after victories over France in the semi-finals and Argentina in the final.
The celebrations, however, were overshadowed by tragedy after a 13-year-old boy died in Ciudad Rodrigo when a fountain collapsed under the weight of fans celebrating Spain’s victory.
In Buenos Aires, Argentina’s defeat brought heartbreak after Lionel Messi and his teammates failed to defend the title they won in 2022. Despite Messi’s impressive tournament, Spain’s disciplined defence restricted the reigning champions, while Enzo Fernández’s red card further dented Argentina’s hopes before Torres scored the decisive goal.
Spain will have the chance to defend its World Cup crown on home soil in 2030, when it co-hosts the tournament alongside Portugal and Morocco.
