Spain’s Unusual No. 1 Jersey Curse Continues Ahead of World Cup 2026

MADRID — As Spain prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, an unusual trend continues to attract attention within the national team setup: the iconic No. 1 shirt is no longer worn by the country’s first-choice goalkeeper.

Traditionally reserved for the starting goalkeeper, the No. 1 jersey has taken on a very different meaning in recent years for La Roja. In a curious twist, the shirt has often been assigned to backup goalkeepers rather than the player entrusted with protecting Spain’s goal on matchday.

The last goalkeeper to firmly associate the No. 1 shirt with the starting role was David de Gea during his time as Spain’s undisputed first-choice keeper. Since the end of his era, the jersey has gradually lost its traditional status within the squad.

The reason lies with current Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón, who has remained loyal to the No. 23 shirt throughout his international career. The Athletic Club shot-stopper has worn the number since his early appearances for the national team and has shown little interest in changing it.

Under both of Spain’s most recent managers, Luis Enrique and Luis de la Fuente, Simón has retained his position as the team’s preferred goalkeeper thanks to his reliable shot-stopping ability and comfort in possession — qualities that have become increasingly important in Spain’s tactical approach.

As a result, the No. 1 shirt has regularly been handed to other goalkeepers selected for the squad. Players such as Kepa Arrizabalaga, Robert Sánchez, and David Raya have all worn the prestigious number at various times, despite not being the first-choice option between the posts.

There is little indication that the situation will change at the 2026 World Cup. Simón remains firmly established as De la Fuente’s leading choice, while competition from other goalkeepers has yet to alter the hierarchy.

Even David Raya, who recently enjoyed an outstanding season that included a Premier League title and the Golden Glove award, could still find himself serving as Simón’s understudy on the international stage.

For Spain, the No. 1 jersey remains one of football’s most recognizable symbols. Yet as the World Cup approaches, it continues to represent a curious paradox — the shirt of the reserve goalkeeper rather than the nation’s undisputed first choice.