The royal family has hailed the World Cup heroes for their incredible performances throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Spain’s FIFA World Cup winners were greeted by the country’s king on Monday in Madrid after returning from the United States with the trophy in tow.
Supporters filled Madrid’s Cibeles Square on July 20 as they gathered to welcome Spain’s players a day after the national soccer team won its second match.
King Felipe VI and the royal family met the Spanish delegation, led by captain Rodri and coach Luis de la Fuente, at the Zarzuela Palace before the players continued their journey into the city with a million supporters expected to celebrate with them.
“You showed your courage, your resilience and your courage, always supported by your technical skill, your control and your mastery of the game, combining head and heart,” the king told the stars of La Roja, dressed in suits.
Spain beat Argentina in extra time on Sunday thanks to a goal from Ferran Torres to win their second World Cup, after first winning in 2010.
The palace posted videos of the celebrations and photos of the royal family on its official Instagram account.
Queen Letizia, who accompanied the king, wore a red dress matching the color of the Spanish team’s jerseys, as did their two daughters, Princess Leonor and Princess Sofia.
Felipe greeted and shook hands with each player, leaning over to hug Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
The king told the players they were “united” in their “odyssey” to win the expanded 48-team tournament.
U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino applaud after presenting the World Cup trophy to Spain following their victory in the 2026 World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19.
