Miami, June 17, 2025 – On the occasion of Real Madrid’s arrival in the United States to play their first match of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, the Spain-U.S. Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Spain in Miami, brought together leading diplomatic, sports, and institutional authorities, along with over one hundred companies, for an official event to welcome the Spanish club and celebrate Spanish soccer.

The event, held at Miami Dade College (MDC) — the host institution and official partner of FIFA — highlighted Real Madrid’s status as one of the most influential sports organizations in the world. It also emphasized Miami’s growing role as a strategic capital of soccer in the U.S., further reinforced by its designation as one of the official host cities for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

During the event, Madeline Pumariega, President of Miami Dade College, underscored the transformative power of sports and the positive impact of the college’s collaboration with FIFA: “FIFA has created unique opportunities for our students to experience the magic of the world’s greatest sport up close.” She proudly shared that 32 MDC students took part in the tournament’s opening ceremony, and highlighted that a recent graduate is now interning at FIFA’s local headquarters.

Jaime Lacadena e Higuera, Consul General of Spain in Miami, and Mónica Vázquez, President of the Spain-U.S. Chamber of Commerce, both emphasized the importance of having a prestigious global brand like Real Madrid as an ambassador for Spanish sports — and for Spain as a whole. They highlighted the club’s significant economic and social impact that extends far beyond the field.

As a symbolic gesture, Mónica Vázquez presented José Ángel Sánchez, Real Madrid’s CEO, with a printed copy of the Chamber’s commemorative book: “40 Years of Collaboration, 500 Years of Shared History.” This publication features stories of over 500 companies that reflect the strength and diversity of business ties between Spain and the U.S., with Real Madrid standing out as a symbol of leadership and excellence. The book includes forewords by His Majesty King Felipe VI and U.S. President Donald J. Trump, capturing the spirit of entrepreneurship and deep collaboration that unite both countries. The presentation served as a gesture of recognition and gratitude from the Chamber for Real Madrid’s contribution to this shared legacy.

Daniella Levine Cava, Mayor of Miami-Dade County, welcomed the boost soccer brings to the region: “This event will not only transform our community, but also strengthen our economy in the short and long term. The world is connecting with our city through the power of soccer.”

Spanish Pride on the Global Stage

Representing FIFA, Emilio García Silvero, Chief Legal and Compliance Officer, spoke about the significance of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup — the first edition under the new 32-team format, bringing together clubs from all six confederations with a total prize pool of $1 billion. He also looked ahead to the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the U.S., reinforcing the growing importance of soccer in the region.

Rafael Louzán, President of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), took part as a representative of Spanish soccer and noted: “Spanish football is experiencing a moment of strong international momentum.” He expressed confidence in the role that Spanish clubs will play in this new competition and voiced hope that Spain’s national team will once again celebrate victories on U.S. soil during the 2026 World Cup. Louzán is leading a federation delegation that will engage in strategic meetings with political, social, economic, and sports authorities across the U.S., in a mission of sports diplomacy and institutional promotion.

Real Madrid, Global Ambassador of Spanish Soccer

Real Madrid was represented by CEO José Ángel Sánchez and Director of Institutional Relations Emilio Butragueño, joined by a broader club delegation.

José Ángel Sánchez presented several key upcoming projects aimed at further expanding the club’s international reach and connection with its fan base — one of the largest in the world: “The drive to overcome limits is part of our DNA. We know this tournament will be tough, with strong rivals, but we face it with ambition and the responsibility of representing millions of fans — especially here in the U.S., where we feel immense support.”

Emilio Butragueño highlighted how the club transcends sport, serving as a global brand associated with values like excellence, perseverance, and leadership, while maintaining a strong social commitment through educational, cultural, and charitable initiatives: “I want to highlight the work of Real Madrid University, a clear example of the club’s commitment to education and the global advancement of sports knowledge.”

Networking and Institutional Engagement

The event concluded with a networking reception attended by prominent executives and entrepreneurs, courtesy of Mahou, one of Spain’s most internationally recognized beers, present in the U.S. for over a decade. The event also received the support of Iberia, reaffirming its dedication to elevating Spanish sports on the global stage.

This institutional gathering not only honored one of the world’s most decorated clubs, but also helped strengthen the bonds between Spain and the United States through sport, diplomacy, and business.