Lamine Yamal ensured Spain’s World Cup celebrations came with one final dig at Argentina.
Less than 24 hours after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in extra time to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the teenage
sensation mocked their beaten rivals as nearly two million supporters flooded the streets of Madrid to welcome the champions home.
After flying back from New York, Spain’s squad began a day of celebrations with official receptions at the Zarzuela Palace, where they met King Felipe VI, before heading to the Moncloa Palace for a reception hosted by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.
But it was Yamal who grabbed the headlines.
Yamal’s Viral Message
Standing atop Spain’s open-top bus, the 19-year-old held up a homemade sign reading:
“Velada del Año: Paredes vs Gavi.”
The banner referenced the ugly post-match brawl that erupted following Sunday’s final, with La Velada del Año being Spain’s hugely popular celebrity boxing event.
The joke was aimed squarely at Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes, who shoved Gavi to the ground after the final whistle during chaotic scenes that overshadowed Spain’s historic victory.
Argentina’s Ugly Ending
The World Cup final had already been simmering throughout the night, with Argentina repeatedly criticised for their physical approach.
Their frustrations boiled over after Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner, as players from both teams became involved in multiple confrontations.
Enzo Fernández had earlier been sent off after picking up a second yellow card, while Paredes became the central figure in the post-match melee after confronting Gavi. Argentina’s conduct has since come under widespread criticism.
Madrid Turns Red
Despite the ugly scenes in New Jersey, the mood back in Spain was one of pure celebration.
Ferran Torres, whose goal secured the country’s second World Cup title, joined teammates aboard the open-top bus wearing a cap reading “Make Spain Great Again” in a playful nod to Donald Trump’s famous slogan.
According to Madrid’s central government delegate, close to two million people lined the streets before the celebrations culminated at the iconic Plaza de Cibeles.
Head coach Luis de la Fuente thanked supporters for their backing, while captain Rodri addressed the jubilant crowd simply: “We are world champions… Long live Spain.”
