Spain’s celebrations following their 2026 FIFA World Cup victory over Argentina have been overshadowed by tragedy after a 13-year-old boy was killed when part of a fountain collapsed in Ciudad Rodrigo, Salamanca province, northwestern Spain.
The incident occurred shortly after midnight as hundreds of football fans gathered around the Árbol Gordo fountain to celebrate Spain’s 1-0 victory in the World Cup final. According to emergency services, part of the historic structure gave way after several people climbed onto it during the celebrations.
The teenager sustained fatal injuries and later died after being taken to a local health centre. At least two other people were injured, including one with a suspected broken leg. Authorities also deployed psychological support for the victim’s family as investigations into the collapse continue.
The tragedy has cast a shadow over Spain’s historic World Cup triumph, prompting an outpouring of condolences from local officials and residents. Ciudad Rodrigo’s town council described the incident as a heartbreaking loss, noting that what should have been a night of national celebration had turned into a moment of profound grief.
Spain had earlier defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy, becoming the first nation to simultaneously hold both the FIFA Men’s and Women’s World Cup titles.
