Spain are enjoying their World Cup victory, even if some fans say Trump lingered too long in team photos

Barcelona – In the historic streets of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, locals had a lot to celebrate next Monday Victory of Spain World Cup 2026 over Argentina. But there were mixed feelings about President Trump lingering on stage next to the winning team as cameras captured the winners hoisting their trophy at a stadium in New Jersey.

“Here in Spain, we have a lot of disagreements in general about Trump’s policies and politics, but I think it’s normal that when you hold a conference. World Cup that you were there on stage,” Barcelona resident Roger, who declined to give his full name, told CBS News.

“I think it was good for geopolitics, because I know Trump didn’t want Spain to win, and then, bam! In your face!” he said with a smile.

Others, however, could not see the humor in the president’s long presence with the Spanish team. After continuing with FIFA boss Gianni Infantino to present the Spanish trophy, he then sat on stage as the players posed for photos. Despite what appeared to be gentle pleading with Infantino, Mr. Trump sat next to the group, smiling and clapping.

“I think it was disrespectful,” one young man, who declined to be named, told CBS News. “Just a moment for the team, the players, the coaches, and he just destroyed it.”

“It was really sad, why do you steal the show or want to show off,” said another fan who identified himself as Damiano. “Let the players be happy alone. You managed the World Cup, that’s enough.”

While the delay of Mr. Trump has caused disappointment, the Spaniards were left with a big Monday following their national victory. After all, it was the second time the Spanish team competed for the FIFA world titles.

Spanish officials said they expected up to a million people to descend on the capital Madrid later on Monday to see a parade of the team’s buses and the trophy.

In the segregated, working-class town of Rocafonda, home of Spanish footballer Lamine Yamal, a public viewing party for Sunday’s final match was engulfed in flames and fireworks following Spain’s extra-time victory over Argentina.

The celebrations continued into the night in Barcelona, ​​where a significant number of Spain’s international teams played at club level. Thousands descended on the city center’s Catalunya Plaza and danced and sang until dawn on Monday.

“We’re proud, it’s the best feeling in the world,” said one local.