World Cup 2026: Spanish heroes return to Madrid, Belgium coach departs, Argentina criticized
Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Spain's national football team returned to Madrid as champions of the 2026 World Cup, celebrated by fans and media.
- Belgium's national team coach Rudi Garcia will depart his role at the end of July, as announced by the Royal Belgian Football Association.
- Scientists recorded seismic waves across Spain following a decisive goal in the World Cup final, attributed to the intense celebrations of fans.
Spain's triumphant 2026 World Cup squad has returned to a jubilant Madrid, greeted by throngs of fans and media eager to celebrate their hard-fought victory. The players descended from the plane brandishing the coveted trophy, marking a historic moment for Spanish football.
Meanwhile, the Belgian national football team faces a change in leadership as coach Rudi Garcia is set to leave his position at the end of July. The Royal Belgian Football Association confirmed the departure of the French manager, who took the helm in February 2025 and guided the team to the World Cup quarterfinals.
The Spanish players had obtained the support of internet users around the world thanks to the government's condemnation of the Israeli offensive in Gaza and its criticism of the war in Iran.
Beyond the pitch, the World Cup final's impact resonated even beneath the surface. Scientists reported that seismic waves were recorded across Spain following a crucial goal in the match and at the final whistle. These vibrations, detected by seismometers nationwide, were attributed to the explosive joy of supporters celebrating Ferran Torres's winning goal, which secured Spain's second world title.
The celebrations of the World Cup in Spain resonated throughout the country, and even underground: a seismic wave was recorded in several Spanish cities after the decisive goal in the final, as well as at the final whistle.
Originally published by Le Figaro in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.