‘Kings of the World’: Spain celebrate historic 2026 FIFA World Cup triumph with massive victory parade in Madrid

Madrid erupted in a sea of red and gold on Monday as an estimated two million ecstatic supporters welcomed Spain's World Cup-winning heroes. Just a day after securing their second world title with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Argentina in extra time in New Jersey, the Spanish squad embarked on a jubilant parade through the capital.

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We’re full of enthusiasm for fulfilling the dream of becoming world champions.

The team, aboard an open-top bus emblazoned with "Kings of the World" and decorated with two giant stars, paraded through streets lined with fans waving national flags and wearing Spain jerseys. The atmosphere was electric, with supporters traveling from across Europe to witness this historic moment for Spanish football.

Supporters like 34-year-old Fran Carratalá, who traveled from Catalonia, expressed their overwhelming enthusiasm for fulfilling the dream of becoming world champions. Daniel Gaona, residing in Estonia, flew back to witness the homecoming, describing the mood as "crazy" and filled with "a lot of happiness."

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Everybody was crazy. It was a very good mood. People were very happy. There were no problems, just a lot of happiness. It’s something you have to come here to live.

The players themselves mirrored the crowd's joy, celebrating shirtless at times, dancing, and interacting with fans. Striker Borja Iglesias even took charge of a DJ console on the bus, providing music for the festivities. The bus also carried the message "Stars shine together," reflecting the team's unity.

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I would like to give immense thanks to the staff and the players for your playing style, effort and victory.

Prior to the parade, the squad paid a courtesy visit to King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who had attended the final. Sánchez lauded the team for their "playing style, effort and victory," while King Felipe VI commended their solidarity, generosity, and "real class" in winning the tournament.

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You’ve been a real team, showing solidarity and generosity, and you’ve won with real class.