Gavi says no bans for Argentina after World Cup final brawl

Spain's World Cup-winning midfielder Gavi has stated he does not believe Argentina's Leandro Paredes should face a retroactive suspension for his role in a post-match brawl following the final on July -19, 2026. The altercation erupted immediately after Spain secured a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with Paredes at the center of the physical confrontations.

FIFA has opened a formal investigation into the chaotic scenes that overshadowed Spain's second World Cup title. The governing body clarified that an initial report of a red card shown to Paredes after the final whistle was an administrative error and that no such dismissal was issued by referee Slavko Vincic. The investigation will review multiple incidents, including clashes involving other Argentine players and staff.

In his first public comments on the incident, Gavi, who was involved in the altercation, adopted a conciliatory stance. Speaking to Spanish media, the 21-year-old Barcelona star said he did not wish to see Paredes or other Argentine players sanctioned. He acknowledged the brawl was not a good image for younger fans but framed the physicality as part of football's...