Spain’s national football team received a spectacular hero’s welcome on Monday after returning home with the FIFA World Cup trophy following their thrilling victory over Argentina in the United States.
Captain Rodri proudly carried the World Cup trophy down the aircraft’s gangway as the champions arrived to cheering supporters and media. The squad paused briefly for photos in front of their aircraft before heading to a packed schedule of celebrations.
The team was welcomed by King Felipe VI at the Royal Palace and later honored by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. Celebrations are set to continue with a massive open-top bus parade through the streets of Madrid, ending at the iconic Cibeles Square, where Spain traditionally celebrates its greatest sporting achievements.
Hundreds of thousands of fans are expected to line the streets to celebrate the nation’s second men’s FIFA World Cup title. Defender Marc Cucurella expressed his excitement about sharing the historic moment with supporters.
“We are really looking forward to returning to Spain. Many people couldn’t be here and we want to celebrate with everyone. I think we deserve a good celebration,” Cucurella said after the final.
Spain secured the title thanks to Ferran Torres’ dramatic extra-time winner against Argentina in Sunday’s unforgettable final. The victory also marks a historic milestone, as Spain now simultaneously holds both the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup titles—the first nation ever to achieve the feat.
However, amid the nationwide celebrations, tragedy struck in the town of Rodrigo. Reports say a 13-year-old boy lost his life after a stone pillar of a fountain collapsed under the weight of celebrating fans. Two others were injured in the incident, and local authorities have declared a three-day mourning period.
Congratulations continue to pour in for Spain’s world champions as the country celebrates one of the greatest moments in its football history while also mourning a heartbreaking loss.
