Gavi believes Paredes should not face suspension after World Cup final incident

By Aditya Rao — 22 July 2026 — 4 min read

Post-Match Confrontation Under Scrutiny

Following the World Cup final, a confrontation involving players from Argentina and Spain has led to a disciplinary review by FIFA. The incident occurred on the pitch as Spain celebrated their victory, with several players and coaching staff reportedly involved. Among those identified were Argentina‘s Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, and Thiago Almada, along with assistant coach Roberto Ayala. The altercation drew significant attention, particularly after Spain‘s 1-0 win.

During the fracas, Paredes was seen confronting Spain‘s Eric Garcia, reportedly by the throat. Unused substitute Gavi attempted to intervene in the situation but was pushed to the ground by Almada. Paredes also reportedly pushed the Barcelona midfielder by placing his hand in the Spaniard’s face, forcing him to the turf. These actions have prompted FIFA to appoint a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to assess the events and determine if any sanctions are warranted.

Despite the visible nature of the confrontation, Gavi has expressed his view that Paredes should not be suspended. Speaking to El Partidazo de COPE, Gavi stated, “I don’t think [Paredes] should be suspended.” He acknowledged that the image might not be ideal for younger audiences but suggested that such physicality is part of football. “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 added.

Gavi further commented on the situation, indicating that a more immediate resolution during the match would have been preferable. “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,” he explained. This perspective highlights a sentiment that on-field incidents should ideally be dealt with by the referee in real-time, rather than through retrospective disciplinary action.

Disciplinary Proceedings and Reversal of Red Card

Initially, there were reports that Paredes had been shown a red card by referee Slavko Vincic for pushing Garcia. This information appeared on FIFA‘s commentator information system. However, this report was later corrected, and Paredes‘ red card was removed from the system shortly after the match. FIFA has since confirmed that no disciplinary action was taken against Paredes at the time of the incident.

This reversal means that Paredes is not currently facing an automatic ban. The initial report of a red card was incorrect, and because the offense was not officially recorded in the referee’s report to FIFA, an automatic suspension could not be applied. This development marked a notable shift from early expectations that the midfielder might face a multi-game ban following the post-final melee at MetLife Stadium.

Despite the absence of an automatic ban, the case remains open. FIFA‘s Disciplinary Committee is actively investigating the incidents that occurred after Argentina‘s defeat to Spain. The investigation includes reviewing actions by other Argentina personnel. For instance, Nahuel Molina is under review for reportedly punching Rodri in the chest, and Thiago Almada for striking Gavi. Assistant coach Roberto Ayala is also being scrutinised for hitting Dani Olmo.

Ayala himself addressed his involvement in the incident, acknowledging his mistake. Speaking from Buenos Aires, he admitted that his action was a reaction to something said and expressed a desire to apologise to Dani Olmo in person. “It was more of a shove than anything else, it wasn’t a punch. It was a reaction to something they said, but if I see Olmo I’ll apologize to him in person,” Ayala stated. He also took responsibility for his actions, explaining his intention was to break up the scuffle, though acknowledging that adrenaline played a role.

The disciplinary body is continuing to gather reports and footage related to the incident. Further actions cannot be ruled out once the disciplinary process is concluded. The committee is also assessing other episodes from the tournament, including a banner supporting Argentina‘s claims regarding the Falkland Islands after their semi-final match against England, which could lead to separate measures.

Referees and Match Outcomes

The final match itself saw a dismissal, with Argentina‘s Enzo Fernandez receiving a second yellow card in second-half added time, leading to his removal from the game. This occurred during regular play, distinguishing it from the post-match altercations under review. The referee’s performance in the final was also a point of discussion, with Ayala commenting on it.

Ayala reflected on the referee’s decisions, noting that the official “had his game” and did not call some smaller fouls. He also mentioned that the first yellow card leading to Enzo Fernandez‘s sending-off might have been rushed, though he conceded that the second was a clear yellow due to the force of the challenge. Despite these observations, Ayala concluded that the referee, officiating the final, performed well overall. “I think that, officiating the final, he did well,” Ayala remarked, acknowledging Spain‘s superior performance and deserving victory in the World Cup final.

Source: bbc.com