Spain’s victorious World Cup soccer team is set to arrive home on Monday, where they will receive a warm reception from both royalty and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. The 26-man squad will embark on an open-top bus parade through central Madrid, greeted by throngs of fans.
The parade will commence near Moncloa Palace, the official residence of the prime minister, and make its way to Cibeles Square. A formal ceremony will take place there, continuing a tradition of celebrations for Spanish national teams.
Spain secured the World Cup trophy by defeating Argentina 1-0 in Sunday’s final in East Rutherford, New Jersey. This marks Spain’s second title, following their 2010 victory in South Africa.
The Spanish capital erupted in celebrations after the match, with thousands of fans flooding the streets from bars and restaurants. Supporters donned Spanish flags and team colors, filling squares like Puerta del Sol with singing and dancing while car horns echoed through the city.
Many fans celebrated throughout the night into Monday morning. “I’m very happy. I’ve slept three or four hours, but for the team, I’ll do whatever it takes,” said 19-year-old Victor Álvarez early Monday.
Adding to the achievement, Spain now holds both the men’s and women’s World Cup titles, having won the Women’s World Cup in 2023.
However, the celebrations took a somber turn after local authorities reported the death of a 13-year-old in Salamanca. The child fell after a fountain collapsed while celebrating with friends.
For many young supporters, this is their first experience of witnessing the men’s team triumph, and they have embraced the national elation.
Ahead of the team’s return, fans gathered at Madrid’s Barajas Airport, eagerly waiting in the arrivals hall. Many wore team jerseys and waved Spanish flags.
Supporters also began to gather near Cibeles Square, bringing umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun as temperatures could reach 35 Celsius (95 Fahrenheit).
