Fans waved from balconies and crowded sidewalks, many of them children and some who had traveled to the capital from far-flung parts of Spain. Countless flags were waved. At the front of the bus, which was accompanied by security guards, the players proudly presented the trophy. “This is just the beginning,” was written on the bus in anticipation of the 2026 World Cup.
The goal of the trip was to celebrate with the fans at the Cibeles fountain. This is where Spain traditionally celebrates its football triumphs. Tens of thousands of cheering people, many of whom had waited since midday in temperatures of over 30 degrees in the shade for a good spot at the front, lined the streets. The people kept shouting “Campeones” (Champions) and “Viva Espana”.
Big party for Spain’s European champions
The newly crowned European champions Spain were welcomed in Madrid on Monday evening. The players travelled through the capital in an open bus, followed by a big party at the Cibeles fountain with dancing and singing by the players.
Captain Morata as master of ceremonies
At around 10.30 p.m. the bus arrived at the Cibeles fountain. There the fans waited patiently for the presentation of the European champions. Each player was introduced and celebrated individually. Young star Lamine Yamal was particularly cheered.
AP/Andrea Comas Spain’s capital had to withstand a mass rush of Spanish fans on Monday
Captain Alvaro Morata acted as master of ceremonies and sang songs every now and then, but he is definitely better at playing football than singing. However, this did not spoil the exuberant atmosphere on the stage and in the audience area.
Reuters/Juan Medina Singing and dancing, the Spaniards celebrated the European Championship title with their fans
Reception with King and Head of Government
Before that, the European Championship heroes were received in the afternoon by King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. At the reception in the Zarzuela Palace, the King’s daughters, Crown Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia, wore the team’s jerseys with Dani Olmo’s number ten on the back.
Morata presented the King with a jersey with the words “Reyes de Europa 4” (Kings of Europe 4). The players wore white T-shirts with the same print to commemorate the fourth European Championship title. Felipe thanked the footballers for the joy they had brought to the country. “I want to thank you for your effort and for the way you played. Such joy has done us good,” said the King.
IMAGO/CordonPress The jersey will probably get a place of honour with King Felipe
Sanchez also received a jersey. “Proud of the players. Proud of the team. Proud of the country,” the head of government had written on the online platform X the evening before. “You made the whole of Spain vibrate with your game,” the head of government added. He spoke of an extraordinary, historic success.
