Spain Turns Upside Down: Millions of Fans Welcome New World Champions

"I'm literally on cloud nine," said Ferran Torres, scorer of the winning goal in the 1-0 final against Argentina, shortly before the parade began. The government estimated the total number of people along the bus route and at the spectacular celebration in Cibeles Square at approximately two million. This would be even more than during Pope Leo XIII's visit in June.

Players danced, sang, and repeatedly showcased the World Cup trophy they had won. In Cibeles Square alone, where the celebration culminated, an estimated 120,000 people, mostly in red jerseys, awaited the "La Furia Roja" team bus, according to Madrid authorities.

All 26 players from coach Luis de la Fuente's squad gradually took to the stage. They danced, embraced, waved to the crowd, and hoisted the trophy above their heads. When the presenters called Yamal's name, a deafening applause erupted even before his arrival. Ferran Torres, who scored the goal the previous day, also received a huge ovation.

De la Fuente delivered a simple yet powerful message: "Together, we are stronger," he shouted to the fans, according to DPA. They had been celebrating Spain's second title since 2010 from early evening with live music and accompanying programs. Not even temperatures well over 30 degrees Celsius deterred them from trying to get as close as possible to their heroes.

The reigning European champions defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time. The defending champions, led by star Lionel Messi, registered their first shot only in the final minutes of extra time. The 39-year-old Messi has yet to decide on his future. "The pain is immense, and this wound needs time to heal," the former FC Barcelona player wrote on Instagram.

Upon their return from the USA in the early afternoon, members of the Spanish national team were received by King Felipe VI, his wife Queen Letizia, and their two daughters, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía. The royal family had already attended the final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, near New York, and participated in the awards ceremony on the field.

The team then paid a courtesy visit to Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. "WE ARE WORLD CHAMPIONS!!" he wrote in capital letters on the X platform. "Our national team is simply amazing! Thank you, team," Sánchez added.