Madrid, Spain: Spain’s FIFA World Cup-winning football team received a historic welcome in Madrid as an estimated 18 lakh fans lined the streets to celebrate their triumph, turning the Spanish capital into a sea of red and yellow on Monday.
The jubilant reception came a day after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the World Cup final in New Jersey, securing their second title and first since 2010. The victory sparked nationwide celebrations, with Madrid emerging as the epicentre of the festivities.
Grand welcome for world champions
The 26-member squad, along with the coaching staff led by Luis de la Fuente, began their homecoming celebrations by meeting Spain’s royal family and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.
Sánchez praised the team for their performance and style of play, saying the entire country had been captivated by their journey.
Following the official reception, the players boarded an open-top bus emblazoned with the slogan “Stars shine together” as they embarked on a celebratory parade through central Madrid.
Streets turn into a carnival
Fans packed the streets in unprecedented numbers, waving Spanish flags, singing, dancing and cheering as the team made its way from Moncloa Palace to the iconic Cibeles Square.
Players, dressed in “Somos Campeones” (We Are Champions) shirts, held the World Cup trophy aloft and interacted with the crowd throughout the parade. Authorities estimated that around 1.8 million people participated in the celebrations across the city.
At Cibeles Square, approximately 1.2 lakh fans gathered for a grand ceremony where players were introduced individually. Each member of the squad walked onto the stage to music of their choice, creating a festive and personalised atmosphere.
Emotional scenes and celebrations
The celebrations were filled with emotional and joyous moments. Coach De la Fuente was lifted into the air by players, while striker Borja Iglesias entertained fans by taking on the role of a DJ during the event.
Spanish music stars including Aitana, Ana Mena and Lola Índigo performed live, adding to the carnival-like atmosphere.
Midfielder Álex Baena marked his 25th birthday by walking onto the stage with the World Cup trophy, drawing loud cheers from the crowd.
The event concluded with the entire team lifting the trophy once again, recreating the iconic moment from the final — this time in front of their home supporters.
Victory sparks nationwide celebrations
The celebrations were not limited to the official parade. On Sunday night, thousands of fans flooded major landmarks such as Puerta del Sol, celebrating late into the night with songs, flares and car horns echoing across the city.
Spain clinched the World Cup title after Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time against Argentina. The victory also marked a historic milestone, as Spain now holds both the men’s and women’s World Cup titles simultaneously — the latter won in 2023.
Global leaders, including the heads of the United States, Mexico and Canada — co-hosts of the tournament — extended their congratulations to the Spanish team.
Tragedy mars celebrations
Despite the largely festive atmosphere, the celebrations were overshadowed by a tragic incident. Authorities reported that a 13-year-old boy in Salamanca died after a fountain he had climbed onto with friends collapsed during the celebrations.
The incident cast a sombre note over an otherwise joyous occasion, prompting calls for caution during large public gatherings.
A symbol of national pride
Spain’s latest World Cup triumph comes at a time when the country is experiencing economic growth and greater social stability compared to 2010, when it last lifted the trophy amid a financial crisis.
For many young fans, this victory marks their first experience of seeing Spain crowned world champions, strengthening a renewed sense of national pride and unity.
Conclusion
Spain’s World Cup victory has united millions across the country, with Madrid’s grand celebrations reflecting the immense passion for football. While the tragic incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with large gatherings, the triumph will remain a defining moment in Spain’s sporting history — one that has brought joy, pride and a renewed sense of togetherness to the nation.
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