Spain Wins the World, Then Wins Hearts
Spain lifted the trophy. But hugs, tears, family embraces and grace towards a fallen rival won the night. In victory, champions reminded the world why football is still called the beautiful game
Brotherly Bliss: Lamine Yamal’s first stop after the final whistle wasn't the trophy—it was his family. His little brother stole hearts with his tongue-out celebrations before stepping onto the pitch to proudly hold the World Cup trophy.
A Mother’s Moment: Lamine then embraced his mother, Sheila Ebana, the single parent whose sacrifices made his football dream possible. As the teenager once said, “My mom was 16 when she had me. My dad had to find a way to feed us. That’s real pressure. I only have to play football.”
Captain’s Glory: Rodri kissed the World Cup before lifting it skyward, triggering wild celebrations as every Spanish player raised their arms in unison.
Shakira’s fashion moment: Shakira dazzled in a custom Roberto Cavalli creation by Fausto Puglisi, proving once again that football’s biggest stage is also a fashion runway.
Respect Beyond Rivalry: Amid the celebrations, Spain’s players walked over to console a tearful Lionel Messi, proving that respect can outshine rivalry.
Guard of Honour: Young Player of the Tournament Pau Cubarsí received a rousing guard of honour from his jubilant teammates.
$9 bn jackpot: FIFA won financially. The first 48-team World Cup generated a record $9 billion in revenue — around 50% more than Qatar 2022 — making it the richest tournament in football history.
LV’s winning touch: Before reaching Spain’s hands, the World Cup trophy travelled in Louis Vuitton’s handcrafted Monogram Trophy Trunk, continuing a tradition that has defined football’s grandest moments since 2010. LV also unveiled a limited-edition collection inspired by the tournament.
Final fit for H’wood: The World Cup final felt every bit like a Hollywood blockbuster. The opening ceremony featured Tom Cruise, Nicole Scherzinger and Jennifer Hudson, while the stands sparkled with stars including David and Victoria Beckham, Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner, Matt Damon, Camila Cabello and many more.
Love in the Stands: Joining the celebrations was Inés García Santos, the Spanish influencer and one of Lamine’s strongest supporters off the pitch.
