Spain became the champions of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on July 19 in New Jersey when they defeated Argentina 1-0 in overtime.
This win marks the second time Spain has won a World Cup, with their first win taking place in 2010.
The game-winning goal came thanks to Spanish forward Ferrán Torres, who is also an outspoken Catholic.
“The goal is the least important thing; right now, all I want is to grab that trophy and squeeze it as hard as I can, because I believe it represents the dream of the 47 million people we were representing on the pitch today — because I think we deserved it and we gave it our all,” Torres said after the final.
Torres — who came off the bench and into the game in the 62nd minute — added that the goal brought him a sense of relief, given the heavy criticism — primarily due to his inconsistent finishing and missed opportunities in front of the goal — he had faced during the World Cup.
“Thank God, He always gives me the strength to keep going, and in the end — as I always say — God grants things to those who deserve them most,” the forward emphasized.
Here are 8 things to know about the Catholic star:
1. He was born in Valencia, Spain
Ferran Torres García was born on Feb. 29, 2000, in Foios, a town just outside Valencia. A leap-year baby, he only celebrates his official birthday every four years.
2. He came through Valencia CF's famed academy
Torres joined Valencia CF's youth system as a child and quickly became one of Spain's brightest young talents. He made his first-team debut at just 17-years-old before becoming a regular starter.
3. He has played for some of Europe's biggest clubs
After starring for Valencia, Torres transferred to Manchester City in 2020, winning the Premier League under Pep Guardiola. In January 2022, he signed with FC Barcelona, where he has continued his development as both a winger and striker.
4. He has represented Spain at every level
Torres has played for Spain's youth national teams before becoming a fixture with the senior squad. He has represented his country at the UEFA European Championship, Nations League, and FIFA World Cup.
5. He has spoken publicly about his Catholic faith
During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Torres openly shared that his Catholic faith is an important part of his life. In a video released by the Spanish national team, he explained that he always carries a cross and an image of the Virgin Mary, saying they "give me a lot of support" and "a lot of faith."
Rather than viewing them as lucky charms, Torres described the cross and Marian image as reminders of his faith. He said these Catholic devotional items are something "very important" to him.
6. His nickname is "The Shark"
Torres embraces the nickname "El Tiburón" ("The Shark"), symbolizing his relentless mentality as a striker in front of the goal. He has even celebrated goals with a shark-fin gesture and has referred to himself as having a "shark mentality."
7. He has been open about his struggles with mental health
Torres has spoken candidly about the mental challenges that come with playing at the highest level. During his time at FC Barcelona, he acknowledged experiencing periods of anxiety, self-doubt, and intense pressure as he adjusted to the expectations of one of the world's biggest clubs. Rather than hiding those struggles, he has encouraged greater openness around mental health in soccer, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and remembering that athletes are people first. His honesty has been praised for helping reduce the stigma surrounding mental health in professional sports.
8. He's part of a growing group of Catholic soccer players speaking openly about their faith
Torres joins several players and coaches — such as Spanish head coach Luis de la Fuente and teammate Mikel Merino — who have publicly acknowledged the role faith plays in their lives. His simple witness — carrying a cross and an image of the Virgin Mary and speaking naturally about their importance — has resonated with many Catholic fans during the 2026 World Cup.