Gavi Says Paredes Should Not Face Suspension After World Cup Final Incident
Spain midfielder Gavi expressed that he does not believe Argentina's Leandro Paredes deserves suspension for his role in the post-match altercation after the 2026 World Cup final.
The incident unfolded as Argentina and Spain players clashed on the pitch after Spain clinched a 1-0 victory. Players including Paredes, Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala appeared involved in the heated exchange.
Paredes was seen pushing Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat. Meanwhile, Gavi, an unused substitute, tried to step in but was taken down by Almada. The Argentine then pushed Gavi to the ground by placing his hand on the Spaniard's face.
FIFA has assigned a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to review the events. Those found responsible may face suspensions, and the Argentine Football Association could be fined.
"I don't think [Paredes] should be suspended," Gavi told El Partidazo de COPE. "It's not a good image for kids, but football has its physical and aggressive side. The logical thing would have been to send him off during the match. In the end, it's all football and it has to be that way."
Ayala Offers Apology Over His Role
Roberto Ayala commented on his actions during the scuffle, apologizing to Spain's Dani Olmo, whom he appeared to strike in the face. Ayala described the contact as more of a push than a punch.
"When the match ended, I saw a fight and went to stop it from getting worse because that's not who we are," Ayala told Capital Radio in Valencia. "I take responsibility for what I did. My intention was just to separate them, nothing more."
Clarification on Disciplinary Actions
There was confusion when FIFA’s commentator system initially showed that Paredes had been red-carded by referee Slavko Vincic for pushing Garcia. That red card was later removed, with FIFA confirming to BBC Sport that no disciplinary action was taken at the time.
Argentina's Enzo Fernandez was sent off during the final, receiving a second yellow card in stoppage time of the second half.
