Madrid welcomed Spain's World Cup-winning soccer team with an estimated crowd of almost 2 million people. The celebration took place on Monday, July 20, 2026, after the team defeated Argentina 1-0 in the final in New Jersey.
A Hero's Welcome
The 26 players and their coaching staff first met with Spain's royal family. Then, they met with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. Sánchez thanked the team for their "style of play, the effort and the victory."
The squad then boarded an open-top bus for a parade through central Madrid. The bus had "Stars shine together" written on it, along with photos of the players.
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Start Your News DetoxPlayers carried the World Cup trophy and wore shirts that said "Somos Campeones" (We Are Champions). They danced and interacted with fans along the parade route. Coach Luis de la Fuente said it was "an emotional and proud experience to represent a wonderful country."
The parade went from near the prime minister's residence to Cibeles Square. Authorities reported about 120,000 people gathered at the square for a special ceremony. Each player chose a song to play when they were introduced on stage. Álex Baena, celebrating his 25th birthday, entered with the World Cup trophy.
Striker Borja Iglesias even acted as a DJ, with his teammates dancing. Singers Aitana, Ana Mena, and Lola Índigo entertained the crowd. The ceremony ended with the entire squad lifting the trophy again for the local fans.
A Nation Celebrates
Fans started gathering at Cibeles Square late Monday morning, bringing umbrellas to shield themselves from the 35 Celsius (95 Fahrenheit) heat. Cibeles Square is a traditional celebration spot for Spanish teams and Real Madrid.
Officials estimated that 1.8 million people welcomed the team in Madrid. Spain won its second World Cup title, and first since 2010, with Ferran Torres scoring the winning goal in extra time.
Leaders from the co-hosting countries, including U.S. President Donald Trump, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, congratulated the team.
After the final whistle, Madrid erupted in celebrations. Thousands of supporters filled the streets, many waving Spanish flags. Crowds packed Puerta de Sol and other major squares, singing, dancing, and setting off flares. Many celebrated late into Monday morning.
This men's victory, combined with Spain's Women's World Cup win in 2023, makes Spain the first nation to hold both titles at the same time.
One sad note occurred when a 13-year-old in Salamanca died after a fountain he climbed collapsed during celebrations.
For many young fans, this is their first time seeing the men's team win the trophy. Spain's situation is much different from 2010. Back then, the country faced a debt crisis and high unemployment. Now, the economy is growing, unemployment has halved, and nationalist tensions have eased.
