Rodri, Simón and Cubarsí Star as Spain Sweep 2026 World Cup Awards

By Zee Dladla | 20.07.2026 | Sports Last Updated On 20.07.2026

Rodri, Simón and Cubarsí Star as Spain Sweep 2026 World Cup Awards

Spain swept the individual prizes at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging Argentina 1-0 in Sunday’s final to secure a second world championship. The triumph capped a dominant run in which the team’s collective quality was matched by standout performances from key players.

The newly crowned winners claimed three of FIFA’s top individual awards. Rodri, Unai Simón and Pau Cubarsí were all honoured for their influence and consistency across the tournament.

Quick facts

  • Spain beat Argentina 1-0 in the final on Sunday to win their second World Cup title.
  • Rodri was named Player of the Tournament.
  • Unai Simón was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament.
  • Pau Cubarsí was named Young Player of the Tournament.
  • Rodri recorded 648 passes in the tournament, setting a World Cup record.

Rodri received the Player of the Tournament award for his role in controlling Spain’s midfield. His commanding displays helped La Roja finish the competition unbeaten, steering matches through tempo and organisation.

The Manchester City midfielder also raised the bar statistically, completing 648 passes during the tournament. That total set a new World Cup benchmark for passes in a single edition.

Pau Cubarsí was recognised as the Young Player of the Tournament for his standout performances while representing Spain. Unai Simón, meanwhile, earned Goalkeeper of the Tournament honours, reflecting his impact at the back as Spain moved through the tournament.

The final list of the major individual awards for Spain’s campaign read: Young Player of the Tournament to Pau Cubarsí, Goalkeeper of the Tournament to Unai Simón, and Player of the Tournament to Rodri.

Written by Staff Writer

Zibuyile began her media journey as a sales intern at Mediamark (Kagiso Media) before moving into digital content creation for ZAlebs.com. Over four years, she helped evolve the platform from a simple blog into one of South Africa's leading independent entertainment news sites.

Following ZAlebs' transition to Celebrity Worx in 2016, Zibuyile was promoted to Executive Editor, recognized for her sharp audience insight and ability to match editorial with branded content. Highlights of her time include a Bookmark Award nomination, judging TLC's Next Great Presenter, reporting from the MTV EMAs, and building partnerships with radio stations like YFM, Cliff Central, and Good Hope FM.

Her editorial work also expanded to include fast-growing digital verticals—such as lifestyle tech, online entertainment, and gambling-related content—tailored to evolving reader interests and brand opportunities.

Published on 20.07.2026
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