New York police apprehended several individuals in Times Square late Sunday night following Spain's World Cup final victory over Argentina. The arrests occurred amidst widespread celebrations by thousands of fans who had gathered for a public watch party in Midtown Manhattan.
According to a spokesperson for the New York Police Department, the arrested individuals face charges of disorderly conduct. Details regarding the exact number of arrests and the specific incidents leading to them were not immediately available as suspects were still being processed. Exclusive photos published by the Daily Mail show officers placing some individuals in riot cuffs.
Scenes of jubilation were evident as Spain supporters, some donning replica trophies and blowing horns, danced in the streets surrounding the popular gathering spot. The win marked Spain's second World Cup title.
Beyond the celebrations for Spain, some attendees displayed Palestinian flags, a reflection of Spain's government stance on supporting refugees in Gaza, contrasting with Argentina's President Javier Milei's close ties with Israel. Many Argentina fans were seen expressing devastation following the match's outcome.
Times Square served as a central hub for World Cup viewing throughout the tournament, with its large electronic billboards drawing significant crowds. While fans from both nations attended, the notes suggest a larger presence of Argentina supporters before the match. Some Spanish fans, not exclusively from Spain, also celebrated on the High Line, an elevated park in lower Manhattan.
The event highlighted the global appeal of the World Cup, with some dedicated fans, including those from Argentina and Spain, traveling from abroad and paying high prices for match tickets, with some reports indicating expenditures of up to $10,000 for single tickets.
