During the flight that took him from Rome to Madrid, Pope Leo XIV identified Real Madrid as his preferred Spanish team, though he clarified that "the Pope belongs to all teams." This statement came in response to a journalist's question about his preferences between the white team and Barcelona.

The Pontiff arrived in the Spanish capital aboard an Ita Airways flight, landing at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport on Saturday, June 6, at 10:15 AM. He was welcomed at the State Pavilion by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, who extended the official welcome to Spanish territory.

The President of the Government, Pedro Sánchez, was also present at the reception ceremony. The Pope's arrival in Spain was greeted in Madrid with a ringing of bells that echoed throughout the capital.

After descending the aircraft stairs, dressed in a red mozzetta and stole over his white habit, the Pope waved before being greeted by the King and Queen. Following a brief exchange of words, they began a joint walk along the red carpet laid out on the tarmac.

The visit to Madrid marks the beginning of a seven-day itinerary in Spain, which will include activities in the capital, Barcelona, and the Canary Islands. In Madrid, the Pontiff will participate in institutional meetings, religious celebrations, and major events such as the Youth Vigil at Plaza de Lima, the Corpus Christi Mass at Cibeles, and a meeting at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

This apostolic visit is considered a significant milestone in the relations between the Catholic Church and Spain, consolidating the papal presence on the Iberian Peninsula.