Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulates Spain on FIFA World Cup 2026 triumph

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has congratulated Spain on winning the FIFA World Cup 2026, securing their second world title with victory over defending champions Argentina in the final at the New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup 2026 champions after edging Lionel Messi-led Argentina 1-0 after extra time in a fiercely contested final on Sunday.

Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute to seal Spain's second FIFA World Cup title, adding to their maiden triumph in 2010, when Andres Iniesta's extra-time winner secured a 1-0 victory over the Netherlands in the final in Johannesburg.

Sharif took to social media platform 'X' to congratulate Spain on their FIFA World Cup 2026 triumph, praising the team's outstanding performances throughout the tournament and highlighting their skill, unity, discipline and teamwork as the key factors behind their success.

"I congratulate Spain on its well-deserved victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Spanish national team displayed exceptional skill, unity, discipline, and teamwork throughout the tournament," Sharif wrote.

The prime minister also praised the successful organisation of the tournament, extending his congratulations to US President Donald Trump and the American people while acknowledging the vital contributions of co-hosts Canada and Mexico in staging a historic edition of football's showpiece event.

"I extend my heartiest felicitations to President Donald Trump and the people of the United States, on the exceptional arrangements and successful hosting of this historic tournament. I also express my appreciation to the governments and peoples of Mexico and Canada for their excellent partnership in hosting the FIFA World Cup with such distinction," he stated.

Sharif further commended FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the world football governing body for successfully delivering the first-ever 48-team FIFA World Cup, saying the tournament had strengthened football's position as a truly global sport while bringing nations together through the spirit of competition and unity.

"I commend FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the entire FIFA team for their efforts in organizing this mega event, which will undoubtedly strengthen football’s stature as a truly global sport," he said.

Concluding his message, the prime minister said the FIFA World Cup had once again demonstrated the unique power of sport to transcend borders and unite people from different cultures and backgrounds, expressing hope that the values of friendship, harmony and mutual respect showcased during the tournament would continue to inspire the world.

"Once again, the FIFA World Cup has reminded us that sport is a universal language - one that transcends borders and inspires humanity. May this spirit of friendship and unity continue to guide us long after the final whistle," he concluded.