Spain’s men’s team returns to Madrid after 2026 World Cup win; 13-year-old dies in local celebrations

Spain's men's national football team returned to Madrid on Monday, one day after defeating Argentina 1-0 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium. Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in the 106th minute of extra time. The 26 players and coaching staff met with King Felipe VI upon arrival before holding a separate meeting with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.

Sánchez said, “Thank you to the coaches and players for the style of play, the effort and the victory. ” The squad then traveled on an open-top bus from near Moncloa Palace to Cibeles Square. The bus displayed the slogan “Stars shine together” along with photos of the players.

Team members wore shirts reading “Somos Campeones” and carried the World Cup trophy during the procession. Authorities reported that approximately 120,000 people gathered at Cibeles Square for the victory ceremony, while officials estimated a total of 1.8 million people welcomed the team across Madrid.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said before the parade, “It's been an emotional and proud experience to represent a wonderful country with such passionate and devoted fans.

Temperatures reached 35 °C (95 °F) as fans secured viewing spots from late morning. Singers Aitana, Ana Mena and Lola Índigo were scheduled to perform at the ceremony. The men's victory, paired with Spain's 2023 Women's World Cup title, makes the country the first to hold both titles at the same time.

U.S. President Donald Trump, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney issued congratulations to the team. A 13-year-old boy in Salamanca died after a fountain he climbed onto with friends collapsed during local celebrations, according to local authorities.

Spain's previous World Cup title came in 2010 in South Africa.