Spanish Ambassador visits Royal Brompton Hospital ahead of World Cup triumph

Royal Brompton Hospital welcomed a distinguished visitor when Her Excellency Emma Aparici, Spain's Ambassador to the United Kingdom, visited the hospital to meet staff and tour its Diagnostic Centre.

The Ambassador met with some of the hospital's more than 60 Spanish staff members, recognising their contribution to patient care and the NHS, on 16 July.

Ms Aparici is the first woman to serve as Spain's Ambassador to the UK.

Her visit coincided with Spain's progress to the 2026 World Cup final, adding further enthusiasm to the warm reception the Ambassador received from Royal Brompton staff. Speaking before the match, Ms Aparici said she was confident that her team would "fight to the end" – a prediction that proved accurate as Spain went on to lift the trophy.

Addressing staff, Ms Aparici said: "I am particularly delighted to see such a strong Spanish presence within the hospital's workforce. Their dedication, expertise and professionalism help deliver outstanding care to patients every day. The contribution of Spanish healthcare professionals to the NHS is a source of great pride, and I tell you this from my heart.

"Thank you for your expertise, your excellence and your work, because you provide the best image of our country abroad. Through your work, you not only support patients and advance medical excellence, but also strengthen the close bonds of friendship and cooperation between Spain and the United Kingdom.

"Today's visit is an opportunity to recognise your achievements and to thank you for the invaluable role you play within this exceptional institution. My sincerest congratulations to all of you, and my best wishes for your continued success."

Royal Brompton Chief Executive Dr Richard Grocott-Mason thanked the Ambassador for her visit and for recognising the contribution Spanish colleagues make to the hospital and its patients.

He said: "We are delighted to welcome Her Excellency to Royal Brompton Hospital and grateful for her kind words about our Spanish colleagues, who make an invaluable contribution to our organisation every day.

"It is also remarkable that Ms Aparici is the first woman to hold this role in more than 500 years. We were all wishing Spain the very best of luck in the World Cup final – so it’s been wonderful to celebrate this perfectly timed visit with our Spanish friends."