Spain secured its second World Cup title, defeating Argentina with a goal from Ferran Torres after 120 minutes of regular play and extra time. Immediately after the match, King Felipe VI descended onto the field to congratulate the players and coaching staff. He embraced many team members during the awards ceremony. Queen Letizia and the two princesses also joined the team's celebration. Striker Lamine Yamal personally presented the championship trophy to the King, who then raised it amidst the players and their families.

King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, Princess Leonor, and Infanta Sofia watched Spain's World Cup semi-final together in Barcelona before celebrating the historic victory. *Photo: Casa de Su Majestad el rey*

The royal family's attendance at the final was a significant display of support. For the match, King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, Princess Leonor, and Infanta Sofia all wore jerseys bearing the number 26. While some initially speculated this was a gesture for striker Borja Iglesias, who wears number 26 for the national team, Spanish media clarified that the number symbolized the year of the 2026 World Cup. The Spanish Football Federation provided these jerseys as gifts.

King Felipe VI's presence in the US fulfilled a promise he made to the team at the start of the tournament. During a visit to the squad in Guadalajara, Mexico, before their group stage match against Uruguay, the King stated he would only return if Spain reached the final. Just before kickoff, the official Royal Household account posted a message to the players: "The World Cup final is more than just a match. It is a shared dream that unites the entire country and resonates with all who hold Spain in their hearts. Today, millions are with you. Go win."

Speaking before the final, King Felipe VI remarked that the current generation of players evoked memories of the 2010 championship squad. "I believe we will witness a final between two brotherly nations, and I hope the outcome favors Spain," he stated. A video previously released by the Royal Household showed the entire Royal Family watching the semi-final on television from Barcelona, cheering and embracing as their team scored.

King Felipe VI raises the trophy in celebration with the Spanish national team. *Photo: David Ramos*

The royal members did not travel to the US on the same flight; King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, and Princess Sofia flew together, while Princess Leonor traveled by private jet. This separate travel arrangement adheres to security protocols, ensuring the safety of the heir to the throne in the event of an incident. Spanish media noted that this event echoed the 2010 World Cup, when Princess Leonor and Sofia also raised the championship trophy in South Africa, though they were too young to attend the stadium in person then.

By Nhat Minh (via Hola)