Jakarta, ThedailyID — Spain’s run to the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals has earned strong support from many Palestinians. Their backing reflects both football and Spain’s political stance toward Palestine.
Spain will face France in the semifinals at Dallas Stadium on July 15. However, support for La Roja extends far beyond the pitch.
According to Al Jazeera, many people in Gaza have gathered in cafés and public spaces to watch Spain’s matches since the group stage.
During Spain’s 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia on June 21, fans celebrated when Lamine Yamal scored the opening goal in the 10th minute.
Yamal has also drawn admiration after previously waving a Palestinian flag during a club celebration.
However, football is only one reason for the growing support.
Many Palestinians also see Spain as one of Europe’s strongest supporters of Palestinian statehood. In addition, Spain has repeatedly called for greater humanitarian protection during the war in Gaza.
A May 2024 survey by the Elcano Royal Institute found that 78% of Spaniards support recognizing an independent Palestinian state.
Meanwhile, Le Monde reported that nearly half of respondents believe Israel bears primary responsibility for the current conflict.
Spain officially recognized the State of Palestine in May 2024.
At the time, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the decision as both historical justice and a necessary step toward lasting peace.
“The recognition of the State of Palestine is not only a matter of historical justice for the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people. It is also an urgent necessity if we want to achieve peace,” Sánchez said.
He added that a future Palestinian state should include the West Bank and Gaza, linked by a corridor. He also said East Jerusalem should serve as its capital.
Furthermore, Spain and the Arab world have shared close ties for decades.
According to Le Monde, those ties began during Spain’s protectorate in Morocco. They later expanded through diplomatic cooperation with Arab monarchies.
Arab states also supported Spain’s successful bid to join the United Nations in 1955.
Today, those historical and political links continue to shape public opinion. As a result, many Palestinians view Spain as more than a football team. They also see it as a country that has consistently supported their national aspirations.
