Spain midfielder Gavi has urged FIFA not to suspend Argentina’s Leandro Paredes following the World Cup final fracas. Despite post-match violence after Spain’s 1-0 victory, Gavi believes the incident should remain part of football, while FIFA continues its investigation.
Spain midfielder Gavi has called on FIFA not to impose a suspension on Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes following the heated altercation that erupted after Spain’s dramatic 1-0 victory over Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
The championship clash, which ended with Spain lifting their second FIFA World Cup trophy after a hard-fought extra-time win, was overshadowed by ugly scenes that unfolded immediately after the final whistle. As Spanish players celebrated their historic triumph, tempers flared between members of both teams, leading to physical confrontations on the pitch.
According to reports, Argentina defender Nahuel Molina allegedly threw a punch at Spain captain Rodrigo Hernandez, commonly known as Rodri, sparking a series of confrontations involving several players and coaching staff. Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala also became involved in the melee.
One of the most controversial moments occurred when Paredes appeared to grab Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat before confronting Gavi. Television footage showed Paredes placing his hand in Gavi’s face, pushing the Barcelona midfielder to the ground, and appearing to kick a boot in his direction as tensions escalated.
The incidents prompted FIFA to launch an official investigation into the post-match violence, with disciplinary action against several individuals remaining a possibility.
Despite being directly involved in the confrontation, Gavi has publicly defended Paredes against calls for a suspension. Speaking to Spanish radio station Cadena Copa, the 21-year-old midfielder said he believes the matter should have been dealt with during the match rather than through retrospective punishment.
“I don’t think Paredes should be suspended,” Gavi said.
He acknowledged that the incidents did not present a positive image, particularly for younger football fans, but argued that football has always included moments of physical confrontation and emotional intensity.
“I understand it’s not a good image for children, but I think there’s also that side to football, which is a bit more physical, more aggressive,” Gavi explained.
“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.”
Gavi’s remarks have drawn attention because he was among the players involved in the confrontation and could have been expected to support stricter disciplinary measures. Instead, the Spanish international emphasized that emotions often run high during matches of such enormous significance.
Meanwhile, former Argentina defender and current assistant coach Roberto Ayala has already expressed regret over his conduct during the chaotic scenes. Speaking to a Valencia-based radio station, Ayala admitted he allowed his emotions to influence his behavior and apologized for his actions.
“Obviously I am sorry; I can’t allow a feeling to change the way that I behave, but I think these are things that should remain out on the pitch,” Ayala said.
Spain’s memorable World Cup triumph should have been remembered solely for their outstanding performance and championship-winning goal. Instead, the celebrations were marred by the post-match clashes, shifting global attention from footballing excellence to disciplinary controversy.
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FIFA’s disciplinary committee is expected to review video evidence and official match reports before deciding whether any suspensions, fines, or additional sanctions will be imposed on the players and officials involved. Until then, Gavi’s appeal for leniency adds another perspective to a debate that continues to divide football fans worldwide.
