Spain celebrates second World Cup title with massive parade in Madrid

Madrid erupted in a sea of red and yellow as an estimated two million fans packed the streets on Monday to celebrate Spain's second World Cup title. The national team, fresh off a 1-0 victory over Argentina in the final, paraded through the capital on open-top buses under the banner "Kings of the World."

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They deserve for us to be here supporting them too and giving back a little of the affection they transmit to us in the matches, the strength they put in.

The atmosphere was electric, with players dancing and singing, tossing soccer balls to the ecstatic crowd, and waving flags. The jubilant mood began with receptions from King Felipe VI and President Pedro Sánchez before the team's procession.

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I am very happy for the second star. It is very different to live a day like today than to have it told to you.

"They deserve for us to be here supporting them too and giving back a little of the affection they transmit to us in the matches, the strength they put in," said Pablo Perello, a 33-year-old bank employee, who joined the throngs to see the players up close.

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Together we are stronger. Spain is lucky to have 26 fantastic people who are also fantastic footballers, the best in the world.

Héctor Mollar, a 14-year-old student, expressed his joy at experiencing this "second star" firsthand, noting it was different from hearing about the team's 2010 victory from his family. The celebrations reached their peak at the iconic Plaza de Cibeles, where midfielder Rodri hoisted the World Cup trophy to thunderous cheers from the massive crowd. Coach Luis de la Fuente declared, "Together we are stronger," praising the "26 fantastic people who are also fantastic footballers, the best in the world."

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¡Viva España!