Gavi Believes Leandro Paredes Should Not Face Suspension After World Cup Final Incident

Spain midfielder Gavi has expressed that Argentina's Leandro Paredes should not face suspension for his role in the altercation following the World Cup 2026 final. The clash broke out after Spain secured a 1-0 victory over Argentina.

The incident involved several Argentine figures, including Paredes, Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala. During the commotion, Paredes appeared to grab Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat. Meanwhile, substitute Gavi stepped in to intervene but was pushed down by Almada. At one point, Paredes shoved the Barcelona player, placing his hand on Gavi’s face and forcing him to the ground.

FIFA's Response and Ongoing Investigation

FIFA has assigned a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to review the events and determine if any participants deserve suspensions or if the Argentine Football Association should face fines. Initially, FIFA’s commentator system mistakenly showed Paredes as having been sent off by referee Slavko Vincic for the throat push, but this red card was later removed. FIFA confirmed no disciplinary action was issued during the match for that incident.

Gavi Defends Physicality of the Game

"I don’t think [Paredes] should be suspended," Gavi told El Partidazo de COPE. "I understand it’s not a good image for children but there is also a physical and aggressive side to football. The most logical thing would have been to send him off during the match, and that’s it. In the end, it’s all football and it has to be that way."

Ayala Responds to His Role in the Fracas

Assistant coach Roberto Ayala acknowledged his involvement, saying he tried to prevent the situation from worsening. He apologized for what looked like a strike against Spain's Dani Olmo, describing it instead as a push.

"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 told Capital Radio in Valencia. "I take responsibility for what I did. My intention was simply to separate them, nothing more."

Other Disciplinary Actions During the Final

During the match itself, Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card in added time of the second half, leading to his dismissal.