Nearly two million people gathered in central Madrid on Monday night to celebrate Spain’s national football team following their historic victory at the FIFA World Cup. La Roja secured a 1-0 win over Argentina in Sunday’s final held in New Jersey, marking a significant achievement for the Spanish team.

The returning players received a heroes’ welcome starting at Madrid’s Barajas airport, where they arrived at approximately 2:30 p.m. local time. From there, the team proceeded to the Zarzuela Palace, the residence of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, located northwest of the city.

At the palace, the monarch and his family, including Princess Leonor and Princess Sofía, greeted the champions. King Felipe acknowledged the team’s skill, perseverance, and the challenges they faced throughout the tournament. “It’s been an epic triumph,” he conveyed, expressing pride in witnessing the final match and celebrating the victory alongside the entire country. The king also commented on the resilience shown by the players, noting that despite physical and emotional hardships and public scrutiny, their success brought immense joy to Spain.

The enormous turnout in Madrid reflects the nationwide enthusiasm and pride following Spain’s accomplishment in securing the World Cup title. This event marks a memorable moment for Spanish football, united by the team’s performance and the widespread public celebrations.