EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY — Spain have been crowned 2026 FIFA World Cup champions, defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time to lift the trophy for the second time in the nation’s history and their first since winning the tournament in South Africa in 2010.
The victory capped an impressive tournament for Luis de la Fuente’s side, who navigated a difficult knockout path before overcoming Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina in the final at New York New Jersey Stadium.
Spain’s triumph also ended Argentina’s reign as world champions after they lifted the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The Spanish national team last won football’s biggest prize in 2010, when Andrés Iniesta’s extra-time goal secured victory over the Netherlands in Johannesburg.
Following the match, the White House shared images of U.S. President Donald Trump presenting the FIFA World Cup trophy to Spain’s players during the post-match celebrations.
“President Donald J. Trump presents the World Cup Trophy to Spain, the 2026 FIFA World Cup Champions!” the White House posted on X.
Trump attended the final as the United States co-hosted the expanded 48-team tournament alongside Canada and Mexico. FIFA President Gianni Infantino also took part in the trophy presentation ceremony.
The final also made history off the pitch with the first-ever FIFA World Cup halftime show, inspired by the NFL Super Bowl. Global music stars including Shakira and Burna Boy headlined the entertainment, with Uganda’s Triplets Ghetto Kids joining them on stage during a performance of the tournament anthem Dai Dai. The Ugandan dance troupe received widespread praise from fans worldwide for their energetic performance.
Spain’s victory adds a second World Cup title to its footballing legacy, having first become world champions in 2010. The latest triumph reinforces the country’s return to the summit of international football after a dominant campaign that saw La Roja eliminate Portugal, Belgium, France and finally Argentina en route to the trophy.
