In pictures: How the world watched the World Cup final

The 2026 FIFA World Cup concluded on Monday with the final match between Spain and Argentina, drawing global attention as fans from diverse locations gathered to witness the showdown. The event took place in a time zone that saw viewers across multiple continents tune in during the early hours of the day. In Sydney’s Tumbalong Park, thousands of spectators filled the venue, while others in cities such as Melbourne, Kolkata, and Beijing joined the celebration either in person or through live broadcasts. In Australia, the match began shortly after dawn for many fans. At Tumbalong Park, the atmosphere was electric, with supporters waving flags and chanting slogans. However, not everyone had access to a seamless viewing experience. In Melbourne, a large-screen television at a local pub unexpectedly cut to an AFL game midway through the match, forcing fans to switch to their mobile devices to continue following the action. This disruption highlighted the challenges of live broadcasting in regions with limited infrastructure or unexpected technical failures. Across the globe, the final was met with equal fervor. In Venezuela, displaced individuals who had taken refuge due to an earthquake found solace in gathering around an outdoor broadcast of the match. Similarly, in the Gaza Strip, fans assembled in the early hours of the morning, using projectors to display the game on makeshift screens amid the remnants of damaged structures. These scenes underscored the unifying power of sports, even in the face of adversity. In the United States, fans flocked to community watch parties, with one notable gathering taking place in Lemon Hill, Philadelphia. The event featured music, food, and a shared sense of anticipation as supporters waited for the outcome. Meanwhile, in the Philippines, where public sentiment toward Spain has been historically complex, fans stayed up late into the night to follow the match, demonstrating the deep emotional connection many hold to international competitions. In India, the match was viewed by fans in Kolkata, who rose early to catch the game. The city’s vibrant football culture meant that the final was treated with great significance, with locals expressing pride in their national team’s participation. In Bangladesh, the enthusiasm for the event was evident as fans proudly displayed support for their preferred teams, with one fan, identified as Srabon, making his allegiance clear through his actions. In China, the match attracted a wide audience, particularly in Beijing, where fans gathered in public spaces to watch the final. The event reflected the growing interest in international football among Chinese audiences, despite the country’s historical focus on domestic leagues. The presence of so many fans in major cities highlighted the global reach of the World Cup and its ability to bring together people from different backgrounds and cultures. As the final whistle blew, the result sent waves of emotion across the world. Supporters of both teams expressed joy and disappointment, with Argentina fans in Australia experiencing heartbreak after the loss. Despite the outcome, the event remained a moment of unity, showcasing how sports can transcend borders and political divides. With the tournament now over, fans will continue to reflect on the moments that defined the 2026 World Cup, looking forward to future editions of the sport’s most prestigious competition.