PHOTOS: Spain's World Cup heroes welcomed by millions in Madrid parade

Spain's World Cup-winning squad received a heroes' welcome on Monday after returning home from their historic triumph in the United States.

The 26-man squad was welcomed by the Spanish royal family before meeting Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, ahead of a jubilant open-top bus parade through the streets of Madrid.

An estimated two million fans lined the capital's avenues as the team travelled from Moncloa Palace to Cibeles Square, where Spain traditionally celebrates major football triumphs.

The celebrations culminated at Cibeles, where coach Luis de la Fuente addressed the sea of supporters.

"Thank you, Spain, for supporting us, for being here. We are lucky to have 26 fantastic people who are also fantastic footballers, the best in the world. For me, it is an honour to manage them and share this moment with my coaching staff. Together we are stronger, don't forget that. Long live Spain!"

Spain secured the World Cup title on Sunday after edging defending champions Argentina 1-0 in the final in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The victory marked only the second time Spain has won football's biggest prize, having previously lifted the trophy in 2010.

The champions also received congratulations from the leaders of the tournament's host nations, U.S. President Donald Trump, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

Celebrations erupted across Madrid as thousands of supporters flooded the streets, waving Spanish flags, singing, and sounding car horns late into the night.

The triumph made Spain the first nation to simultaneously hold both the men's and Women's World Cup titles, following the women's victory in 2023.

Civil servant Gema Rodero described the moment as emotional, sharing that her family chose to experience the win together at home.

The returning squad was later received at Madrid's Royal Palace by King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, Princess Leonor, and Princess Sofía.

Addressing the players, King Felipe VI said, "You are tired, but what a wonderful kind of tiredness. Congratulations."

He added that there was still much to celebrate, urging them to enjoy every gesture of recognition, describing the triumph as an odyssey and hailing the squad as a legendary team.

Despite nationwide celebrations, festivities were overshadowed by tragedy after authorities said a 13-year-old boy in Salamanca died when a fountain he had climbed with friends collapsed.