Luis de la Fuente, the 'father' of a world champion family

Luis de la Fuente is now a world champion coach, guiding Spain to its second World Cup title on July 19, 2026, in New Jersey. This victory comes 16 years after Spain's historic first World Cup win in 2010. De la Fuente's journey to this pinnacle of football was marked by significant challenges, including being dismissed from Deportivo Alavés in 2011 with the team in the third tier.

Following his dismissal, De la Fuente faced 18 months of unemployment, grappling with financial concerns and feeling sidelined from the football world he was dedicated to. He found solace in his family and his hometown of Haro, where a local football field now bears his name. During this period, he continued to immerse himself in football, observing training sessions with clubs like Athletic Club under Marcelo Bielsa.

His career trajectory shifted dramatically when he saw a newspaper advertisement seeking a coach for Spain's U-19 team. This opportunity, facilitated by a friendship with Iñaki Sáez, marked a turning point. After joining the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) in May 2013, initially on a three-month contract, he successfully led the U-19 team to the Elite Round and later to a European Championship title in 2015. This success, achieved with players like Unai Simón, Rodri, and Mikel Merino, laid the foundation for the current World Cup-winning squad.

Over the years, De la Fuente cultivated a strong bond with his players, referring to them as more than just a team – a "family." His coaching progression saw him lead the U-21 team to a championship title in 2019, featuring key players who would become instrumental in the World Cup campaign. He also guided the U-23 team to an Olympic silver medal in Tokyo 2021. His consistent success and the trust he built within the RFEF ultimately led him to the helm of the senior national team, culminating in this World Cup triumph.