Paredes shouldn’t be suspended despite World Cup final brawl, Gavi insists

Spain midfielder Gavi has voiced his opinion that Argentina's Leandro Paredes should not be suspended following the heated confrontation that erupted after the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. Spain secured a 1-0 victory in the match, after which several Argentine players and officials engaged in a tense exchange with Spanish players during their celebrations.

The incident involved Argentine players Paredes, Nahuel Molina, and Thiago Almada, along with assistant coach Roberto Ayala. Reports indicate that Paredes appeared to push Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat. Gavi, who was an unused substitute, was also reportedly pushed to the ground by Almada and had his face touched by Paredes as tensions escalated.

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I don’t think [Paredes] should be suspended.

FIFA has initiated an examination of the events by its disciplinary and ethics prosecutor, with potential suspensions being considered for involved players or officials. The Argentine Football Association could also face sanctions. However, Gavi feels that a suspension for Paredes would be unwarranted.

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I understand it’s not a good image for children, but I think there’s also that football side, which is a bit more physical, more aggressive.

"I don’t think [Paredes] should be suspended," Gavi told El Partidazo de COPE. He acknowledged that the post-match scenes were not ideal for younger viewers but argued that physical battles and intense emotions are inherent aspects of football. Gavi suggested that the most logical course of action would have been for any disciplinary measures to be taken during the match itself, stating, "The most logical thing would have been to send him off during the match, and that’s it. In the end, I think it’s all football, and it has to be that way."

There was initial confusion regarding Paredes's status, as FIFA's commentator information system incorrectly reported him as being sent off. FIFA later clarified that no disciplinary action was taken against him during the final. Enzo Fernandez was the only Argentine player dismissed during the match for receiving a second yellow card in stoppage time. The post-match incident remains under review by FIFA.

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The most logical thing would have been to send him off during the match, and that’s it. In the end, I think it’s all football, and it has to be that way.