Spain defender Pau Cubarsi was named the FIFA World Cup 2026 Young Player after playing a pivotal role in La Roja’s title-winning campaign.
The 19-year-old started all eight matches as Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the final, helping his side keep a record seven clean sheets while conceding just one goal throughout the tournament. Cubarsi became the first defender to win the award and joined an elite list featuring Pele, Franz Beckenbauer, Paul Pogba and Kylian Mbappe. Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon also enjoyed a historic tournament, winning the Golden Glove after recording seven clean sheets—the most by any goalkeeper in a single FIFA World Cup.
He became the second Spanish goalkeeper after Iker Casillas to receive the honour.