Spain's men's national football team returned to Madrid on Monday, July 20, to celebrate winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup [4].

The victory marks Spain's first men's world title since 2010. This achievement allows the country to hold simultaneous world champion status for both its men's and women's national teams [3].

The celebrations began at Madrid-Barajas Airport, where captain Rodri lifted the trophy before a crowd of cheering supporters [1]. From the airport, the squad proceeded to the royal palace for a formal reception. There, the team met King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez [3].

Following the royal welcome, the players took part in an open-top bus parade through the streets of central Madrid [2]. The city erupted in celebration as the team traveled through the capital. Estimates of the crowd size varied among reports, with some suggesting about one million spectators [4], and others claiming the number reached almost two million [2].

Spain secured the championship by defeating Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the final match [1]. The victory concludes a tournament that has seen the team return to the pinnacle of global football.

“Spain's first men's world title since 2010”

This victory establishes Spain as a dominant force in global football, mirroring the success of its women's program. By securing the title 16 years after their previous win, the men's team has ended a long drought and solidified a new era of tactical success on the world stage.