Widespread controversy after the Spanish Super Cup final.. Mbappé leads Real Madrid players to leave the field without an honor guard for Barcelona

Kylian Mbappé's behavior, the Real Madrid star, sparked widespread controversy in sports circles following the end of the 2026 Spanish Super Cup final, which ended with Barcelona winning 3-2, in the match held at the Al Inma Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
According to Spanish media reports, Mbappé appeared clearly affected by the loss, as he led several Real Madrid players to leave the pitch quickly after the final whistle, without waiting for the award ceremony, which led to the absence of the traditional "guard of honor" that the losing team usually holds for the winner on such occasions.
Observers and analysts considered that this behavior raised questions about sportsmanship, especially since the guard of honor is a symbolic tradition that reflects respect for the opponent, regardless of the match result or its sensitivity. Some saw that the emotions accompanying the loss of an exciting final do not justify ignoring this football custom, while others defended the players, considering that their quick departure came in a natural moment of emotion following a painful loss.
For its part, Barcelona, with this victory, enhanced its record in the tournament, achieving its sixteenth title in the Spanish Super Cup, and also recorded a new historic achievement, after winning the title for the second consecutive time at the expense of Real Madrid, following their big 5-2 victory in the 2025 edition.
Spanish journalist Alfredo Martinez pointed out, via the "X" platform, that the absence of the guard of honor did not go unnoticed, as it was met with widespread criticism from some followers who described what happened as an "uncivilized and incomprehensible behavior," especially in a match with a large fan and media presence.
On the other hand, no official comment has yet been issued by Real Madrid club or by player Kylian Mbappé regarding the incident, nor has the tournament management announced any position concerning what happened after the match.
This controversy adds a new chapter to the series of heated confrontations between the traditional rivals, at a time when the spotlight on the behavior of stars inside and outside the field is increasing, considering them role models for wide audiences around the world.