Spain coach Luis de la Fuente receives hero’s welcome in hometown Haro

Luis de la Fuente, head coach of Spain’s national football team, received a special tribute in his hometown of Haro, Spain, on Sunday, as thousands of residents gathered to welcome him and show their appreciation after he led the national team to its second World Cup title last month.

Crowds filled Plaza de la Paz in Haro from early morning, including hundreds of children wearing Spain’s national team shirts. According to Spanish daily Marca, de la Fuente was visibly moved by the warm reception.

The Spanish coach, who left Haro at age 15 to join Athletic Bilbao, expressed his immense happiness and pride at returning to his hometown, emphasizing his enduring connection to its streets, school, and childhood friends. He said the outpouring of affection from the people of Haro deeply touched him, calling the tribute a special moment in his career.

Official and family participation in the celebration

De la Fuente was joined at the celebration by his son Alberto, a member of Spain’s coaching staff, as well as La Rioja regional president Gonzalo Capellán and Haro mayor Guadalupe Fernández. The coach appeared on the balcony of Haro’s town hall wearing his medal and holding the World Cup trophy, as the crowd applauded and chanted "World Champions."

De la Fuente has often spoken with pride about his beginnings in Haro, where he took his first steps in football alongside friends and fellow townspeople.