Spain is set to celebrate its second-ever World Cup title with a grand open-top bus parade through the streets of Madrid this evening. The national heroes, led by manager Luis de la Fuente, are expected to land at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport around 2:30pm local time today, Monday 21st July 2026, before embarking on a series of official engagements and the highly anticipated public celebration.
The parade follows Spain's dramatic 1-0 victory over Argentina in the World Cup final, held in New Jersey, with Ferran Torres netting the extra-time winner that secured the coveted trophy. The individual accolades also flowed for La Roja, with captain Rodri earning the Golden Ball award, Pau Cubarsi named young player of the tournament, and Unai Simon taking home the Golden Glove for best goalkeeper.
Before the public festivities commence, the victorious squad will receive a royal welcome. Their first official stop will be at the Royal Palace of Zarzuela, where King Felipe VI and the royal family will formally congratulate the newly crowned world champions. Following this, the team will proceed to Moncloa Palace, the official residence of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, for a government reception and further commendation.
The open-top bus parade is scheduled to begin at 7pm local time (6pm BST) from the Moncloa transport interchange. The route will take the team down the historic Calle de la Princesa, then onto Calle de Alberto Aguilera. It will continue along Calle de Carranza, Calle de Sagasta, Calle de Genova, and Calle de Goya, passing significant Madrid landmarks such as the Monument to Christopher Colombus. The grand finale will see the bus turn onto Calle de Serrano, past the Puerta de Alcala, and finally onto Calle de Montalban, leading to Cibeles Palace. This central square is expected to be the epicentre of the celebrations, featuring a main stage with musical performances to entertain the hundreds of thousands of fans anticipated to line the route.
Supporters have already begun gathering in key locations like Cibeles Square, braving the summer heat, eager to greet their champions. The celebrations are a continuation of the jubilation that swept across Madrid into the early hours of Monday morning, with crowds packing Puerta de Sol and other major squares following the final whistle.