Fernando Alonso hails Spain’s World Cup win as ‘What a team!’ moment

Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz celebrate Spain’s World Cup glory

On Sunday 20 July 2026, Fernando Alonso joined Carlos Sainz in celebrating Spain’s dramatic World Cup victory over Argentina in a 1-0 extra-time win at MetLife Stadium in New York.

What happened in New York

Spain edged past Lionel Messi’s Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final after a tense 1-0 victory in extra time. The decisive goal arrived in the second period of extra time, sparking wild celebrations among the Spanish squad and the nation’s Formula 1 drivers watching on.

How Alonso and Sainz reacted

Alonso posted on social media shortly after the final whistle, calling the triumph “What a team. So well deserved. Congratulations, Spain. The best.” Sainz, who plays for Williams in Formula 1, was first to react, sharing a celebratory post on Instagram Stories with the caption “What madness!! Come on, Spain! Thank you for letting us enjoy an incredible World Cup. Champions!”

A rare bright spot for Alonso’s weekend

Hours before the World Cup final, Alonso had endured a tough Belgian Grand Prix. Aston Martin’s upgrades failed to spark a turnaround, and Alonso was lapped twice after a safety car. He finished well down the order while Sainz avoided the same fate, managing 16th place.

Why the World Cup win matters to Alonso

The two-time world champion has little to cheer about in Formula 1 this season. Spain’s World Cup success offered a rare lift outside the cockpit, giving Alonso a chance to celebrate a national-team triumph just hours after another disappointing race.