Spain return to hero’s welcome after World Cup triumph

Spain’s World Cup-winning squad received a rousing welcome on Monday as they returned home following their victory over Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.

Captain Rodri carried the World Cup trophy as the players disembarked from their flight before posing for photographs at Madrid-Barajas Airport.

The celebrations were scheduled to continue with an official reception hosted by King Felipe VI at the Royal Palace before Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez welcomed the squad.

An open-top bus parade through the streets of Madrid was also planned, ending with a celebration at Cibeles Square, the traditional venue for Spain’s major sporting triumphs.

Hundreds of thousands of supporters were expected to line the streets to celebrate Spain’s second men’s World Cup title.

Players look forward to celebrations

Defender Marc Cucurella said the team was ready to celebrate with fans who could not travel to the United States for the final.

Spain secured the trophy on Sunday after Ferran Torres scored the only goal in extra time to seal a 1-0 victory over defending champions Argentina in New Jersey.

Members of the Spanish royal family were also present at the final.

Nation celebrates amid tragedy

Spain’s latest triumph also completed a unique achievement, making the country the first to simultaneously hold both the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup titles.

While celebrations erupted across the country, local media reported one fatal incident during the celebration.

A 13-year-old boy reportedly died in Ciudad Rodrigo after a stone pillar from a fountain collapsed while people were celebrating. Two other people sustained injuries in the incident.

Authorities in the town announced a three-day mourning period following the tragedy.

Spain’s victory marked their second men’s World Cup title, adding to the success achieved in South Africa in 2010.