Jul 22, 2026
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Spain midfielder Gavi has stated he does not believe Argentina's Leandro Paredes should be suspended for his role in a post-match confrontation.

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ManyPress Editorial

2 min readSource:BBC Sport
Spain's Gavi says Paredes should not face suspension for World Cup final fracas

Key facts

  • Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the World Cup final.
  • Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada, and Roberto Ayala were involved in the post-match incident.
  • Gavi stated that he believes the incident should have been handled with an on-pitch dismissal rather than a post-match suspension.
  • FIFA has appointed a prosecutor to assess the confrontation.
  • The Argentine Football Association faces the possibility of being fined.

Spain midfielder Gavi has publicly stated that he does not believe Argentina's Leandro Paredes should face a suspension for his involvement in a confrontation following the World Cup final. The incident occurred after Spain's 1-0 victory, involving several Argentine players and staff.

Details of the confrontation

During the post-match fracas, Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala were identified as participants. Reports indicate Paredes appeared to push Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat, while Gavi, who was an unused substitute, was forced to the ground by Almada after attempting to intervene. Paredes also reportedly pushed Gavi to the turf by placing a hand in his face.

Gavi's perspective on the incident

Speaking to El Partidazo de COPE, Gavi acknowledged that the behavior did not present a positive image for children but argued that physical and aggressive play is a part of football. He suggested the matter should have been resolved on the pitch during the match, stating that the most logical outcome would have been a red card at the time.

FIFA disciplinary review

FIFA has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to evaluate the events. Potential consequences for those involved include suspensions for players or coaches, and the Argentine Football Association could face a fine.

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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by BBC Sport.

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