Spanish monarch and prime minister formally welcome World Cup champions
King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez host the Spanish national football team as they return from securing the 2026 FIFA World Cup title.
Spain’s newly crowned World Cup champions have been formally welcomed by the nation’s leadership, with King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez receiving the Spanish national football team. The event marks the official institutional recognition of La Roja’s success in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The tournament concluded with Spain defeating England 2-1 in the semi-final, a match held at Atlanta Stadium on 15 July 2026. This victory secured Spain’s place in the final and ultimately their status as world champions.
England’s campaign ended in the semi-finals after the loss to Spain. Prior to that fixture, England had advanced by defeating Argentina 2-1 in the other semi-final. The South American side had taken the lead through Enzo Fernandez before Lautaro Martinez scored a stoppage-time winner to send England home.
In the subsequent third-place playoff, England faced France in Miami. The match saw England take an early lead through goals from Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa, and two from Bukayo Saka. France mounted a significant comeback, with Kylian Mbappé, Bradley Barcola, and Ousmane Dembélé scoring to narrow the deficit. Jude Bellingham ultimately secured the victory for England in the 90th minute plus eight seconds, ending Didier Deschamps’ tenure as France manager.
The welcome ceremony for the Spanish champions, reported by France 24 International, underscores the political significance attached to the team’s achievement. The event highlights the intersection of national sport and state protocol as the country celebrates its latest major international title.
