Spain’s triumph at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has delivered another historic milestone for Lamine Yamal, who is now the first footballer under the age of 20 to win both the UEFA European Championship and the FIFA World Cup.
The 19-year-old Barcelona winger reached the landmark after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.
The victory secured Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title, 16 years after lifting their first trophy in South Africa in 2010.
According to FIFA, Yamal is the youngest player ever to achieve the remarkable international double, further cementing his place among football’s brightest young stars.
World Cup success adds to growing legacy
Throughout Spain’s successful World Cup campaign, Lamine Yamal played a key role in the team’s attacking performances.
His goals, assists and creativity helped guide Luis de la Fuente’s side to the championship, making him one of the standout performers of the tournament.
The achievement comes just two years after Yamal played a decisive role in Spain’s UEFA Euro 2024 triumph.
At the tournament, he made history by becoming the youngest player to appear, score and register an assist in the European Championship.
His performances earned him the Young Player of the Tournament award after Spain defeated England 2-1 in the final held in Berlin.
Exclusive place among football greats
By adding the FIFA World Cup to his UEFA European Championship medal before turning 20, Lamine Yamal has entered an exclusive group of players who have lifted both major international trophies during their careers.
However, no player had previously completed the feat before reaching the age of 20, making the Spanish forward’s accomplishment unique in football history.
The latest milestone also strengthens Yamal’s growing reputation as one of the game’s most accomplished young talents. Despite still being in his teenage years, he has already collected significant honours for both club and country.
