Gavi Says Paredes Should Not Face Suspension After World Cup 2026 Final Incident

Gavi, the Spanish midfielder, does not believe that Argentina's Leandro Paredes deserves a suspension for his role in the scuffle following the World Cup 2026 final. The match ended with Spain securing a 1-0 victory over Argentina.

The incident included several Argentina players—Paredes, Nahuel Molina, and Thiago Almada—as well as assistant coach Roberto Ayala, all of whom appeared involved in the confrontation on the pitch during Spain's celebrations. Paredes was seen pushing Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat, while Almada forced Gavi, who was trying to step in, to the ground. Paredes also pushed the Barcelona midfielder down by placing his hand in his face.

FIFA has assigned a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to review the events. Anyone involved could face suspension, and the Argentine Football Association might be fined.

Gavi told El Partidazo de COPE, "I don't think [Paredes] should be suspended. I understand it’s not a good image for children but there’s another side of football, which is more physical and aggressive. 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 part of football."

Assistant Coach Ayala Responds

Roberto Ayala commented on his involvement after appearing to strike Spain's Dani Olmo in the face, describing the action as more of a push than a punch.

"When the match ended, I saw a scuffle in the middle of the pitch and I went over to stop it from escalating because that’s not who we are," Ayala said on Capital Radio in Valencia. "I take responsibility for what I did. My intention was simply to go and separate them, nothing more."

Clarifications on Disciplinary Actions

There was an incorrect report on FIFA’s commentator information system stating Paredes had been sent off by referee Slavko Vincic for pushing Garcia. This red card entry was later removed, and FIFA confirmed to BBC Sport that no disciplinary action was taken during the match against Paredes.

Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez did receive a dismissal during the final, earning a second yellow card in added time of the second half.