Pedro Sanchez has performed a U-turn and will now attend Spain’s World Cup final against Argentina in New York on Sunday.
It comes after government sources previously insisted the trip was not on his agenda due to it clashing with a trip to Algeria.
Until late on Thursday, government sources had maintained that Sanchez would not travel to the United States for the showdown at MetLife Stadium, where Spain will attempt to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
However, the Spanish government has now confirmed the change of plans, announcing that Sanchez ‘will attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup final this Sunday in the United States.’
The Prime Minister will join a high-profile Spanish delegation led by King Felipe VI.
Also attending will be Queen Letizia, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia, as well as Education, Vocational Training and Sports Minister Milagros Tolon.
US President Donald Trump is also expected to be in the VIP box for the final.
The decision marks a reversal from the government’s previous position, after Moncloa had repeatedly indicated that Sanchez would not make the trip to New York.
The visit will make for a demanding schedule, as Sanchez is due to begin an official visit to Algeria just hours after the match concludes.
Government sources said he will travel directly from the United States to Algeria to continue with his official programme on Monday.
That means the Prime Minister will have to cross the Atlantic twice in quick succession, with the World Cup final not expected to finish until close to 11pm Spanish time if it ends in normal time, and even later if it goes to extra time or penalties.
Despite the tight turnaround, government officials insist the journey can be completed without affecting his official commitments in Algeria.
