Luis de la Fuente extends Spain contract to 2032 and targets more major honours

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has signed a new contract running until 2032, with Spanish Football Federation president Rafael Louzan saying the extension was the right decision for the man who has restored La Roja to the top of world football.

The agreement was announced on Monday at a ceremony held at the federation’s headquarters in Las Rozas, ending speculation over De la Fuente’s future. The long-term deal comes after a period in which he has guided Spain to the Nations League title in 2023, the European Championship in 2024 and the World Cup.

De la Fuente, who joined the federation in 2013, was also recognised for winning the European Under-19 Championship, the European Under-21 Championship and an Olympic silver medal at Tokyo 2020.

The World Cup trophy was the only major honour absent from the ceremony. It is currently on display at the Centre Pompidou in Malaga as part of a national celebration of Spain’s historic achievement.

Despite his success, De la Fuente used his first public comments since the renewal to insist that Spain must continue improving.

“Success lies in competing and doing everything you can to achieve your goal,” he said in comments reported by Spanish media.

“We are not satisfied with what we have achieved so far. The best is yet to come, and there are still many great achievements for us to enjoy.”

He added: “Although we have won many trophies, my next objective is to continue developing. The team still has a great deal of room to grow.”

De la Fuente said his attention was firmly on Spain’s next challenges rather than on past accomplishments.

“We are in a very fragile position. Life has taught me to be short-sighted and deal with things one day at a time,” he said.

“My goal is to be at my best for the match against England and the Nations League matches that follow.”

He also highlighted Spain’s ambitions for the next two major tournaments on home soil.

“But I am especially excited about qualifying for the 2030 World Cup, which will be at home, and above all for Euro 2032. We will give everything to achieve that,” he said.

Speaking to TVE after the contract announcement, De la Fuente said: “Excitement, great emotion and pride at continuing to represent my country.”

The decision to extend his contract beyond the 2030 World Cup, which will be hosted by Spain, was personally proposed by newly appointed federation president Rafael Louzan.

“It was a proposal Luis welcomed enthusiastically, and it is the culmination of a long and successful journey,” said Louzan. “I believe it is the right decision; Luis deserves it.”

Louzan also praised De la Fuente’s character away from the pitch.

“We have an exceptional person who embodies everything,” he said. “Everyone I speak to confirms how highly regarded he is by Spanish society. He is truly a champion and a great person.”

The new deal gives Spain long-term coaching stability and represents a clear commitment to the manager who has led the national side back to the summit of international football.