Rabat – Spain national team head coach Luis de la Fuente has been named Men’s Coach of the Year at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony in London, receiving the prestigious Johan Cruyff Trophy.
The Spanish manager earned the recognition following an exceptional year in which he guided Spain to their second FIFA World Cup title, defeating Argentina in the final in New Jersey in July.
De la Fuente emerged victorious from a shortlist featuring several of Europe’s most successful managers, including Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta, Paris Saint-Germain’s Luis Enrique, Aston Villa’s Unai Emery and Bayern Munich’s Vincent Kompany.
His triumph follows Spain’s impressive performances at the World Cup, where the national team established itself among the strongest sides in international football.
The award adds another personal achievement to De la Fuente’s successful spell in charge of La Roja.
Since taking over the senior national team in December 2022, the Spaniard has overseen a remarkable period of success.
He first led Spain to the UEFA Nations League title in 2023 before securing the European Championship in 2024, defeating England in the final.
Two years later, he guided the team to World Cup glory, becoming one of the few coaches to win both the European Championship and the World Cup.
His achievements also earned him a contract extension until 2032, announced by the Spanish Football Federation in September.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony, held at London’s Palladium Theatre, marked the 70th anniversary of the prestigious football awards.
De la Fuente succeeds fellow Spaniard Luis Enrique, who won the coaching prize in 2025 following his success with Paris Saint-Germain.
The latest recognition further confirms De la Fuente’s place among the most accomplished managers in international football.
