Spain's World Cup champions return home for royal welcome and Madrid parade

Spain's World Cup champions have returned home to a jubilant reception, including a meeting with the nation's royals and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. The 26-man squad then boarded an open-top bus for a parade winding through central Madrid, from near Moncloa Palace to Cibeles Square, where traditional celebrations with supporters are held.

The team secured their second World Cup title by defeating Argentina 1-0 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. This historic win, following their 2010 victory in South Africa, makes Spain the first country to hold both the men's and women's World Cup titles concurrently, after the women's team won in 2023.

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I’m very happy. I’ve slept three or four hours, but for the team, I’ll do whatever it takes.

Madrid erupted in celebrations following the final whistle, with thousands of fans filling streets and squares, singing, dancing, and setting off flares. The national delirium continued into the early hours of Monday morning. For many young supporters, this is the first time they have witnessed the men's team lift the trophy and experienced the ensuing national euphoria.

The country's triumph arrives at a time of significant economic and social progress. Unlike in 2010, when Spain faced a debt crisis and high unemployment, the economy is now expanding, unemployment has halved, and nationalist tensions have cooled considerably. This success offers a stark contrast to the nation's past struggles.

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Honestly, it was very exciting. We preferred not to go to any bar or anything, to experience it at home, focused and very happy, very joyful.