The day began at the Atlantic Council, where a roundtable discussion explored the development of women’s football and its ability to build connections around the world. Representing the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) were Spain head coach Sonia Bermúdez, assistant coach Iraia Iturregi and Reyes Bellver, the RFEF’s Director of Women’s Football. Atlantic Council President and CEO Frederick Kempe welcomed the Spanish delegation, while Lisa Homel, Associate Director of the Europe Center, moderated the discussion.

Following the conversation, Rama Yade, Senior Director of the Africa Center and Senior Fellow at the Europe Center, highlighted the power of sport as a means of bringing people together and building connections. She emphasised its ability to bridge divides and help address some of the conflicts and challenges facing the world today. “Sport brings people together,” she said.

Following the meeting, the Spain delegation travelled to the residence of Spain’s Ambassador to the United States, Ángeles Moreno Bau, where the day continued in an atmosphere of warmth and cordiality between the institutions. Spain captain Irene Paredes and internationals Oihane Hernández and Adriana Nanclares also attended the event.

At both events, Sonia Bermúdez expressed her gratitude for the warm welcome in Washington and highlighted the significance of the meeting between Spain and the United States.

“It is a pleasure to come to this city and play against one of the best national teams. Two of the best teams will be facing each other, and it will be a great opportunity for the public to watch some of the biggest stars go head-to-head,” she said.

Spain therefore brought an afternoon in the US capital to a close with football taking centre stage beyond the pitch — as a platform for dialogue, connection and shared experiences — ahead of the two-match international series against the United States.