Spain midfielder Gavi on Wednesday, 22 July said he does not want Argentina's Leandro Paredes suspended over the post-match chaos that marred Spain's 1-0 World Cup final victory over Argentina, even as FIFA has launched a formal investigation into the incidents.

What Gavi Said

Speaking to Spanish radio station Cadena Copa, Gavi — who was directly involved in the altercation — was measured in his response. 'I don't think [Paredes] should be suspended,' the FC Barcelona midfielder said. '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.'

He added: '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.'

What Happened on the Pitch

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final descended into ugly scenes immediately after the final whistle. Argentina defender Nahuel Molina appeared to swing a punch at Spain captain Rodrigo Hernandez, prompting a furious response from the Spanish skipper. Separately, Paredes was seen grabbing Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat before pushing Gavi to the ground, shoving him in the face, and reportedly kicking a boot toward the 21-year-old Barcelona midfielder.

Argentina midfielder Thiago Almada and former Valencia defender and Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala were also drawn into the melee. Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni was seen intervening on the pitch as tensions escalated.

Ayala Apologises

Since the incident, Ayala has issued a public apology during an interview with a Valencia-based radio station. '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,' he said. His apology is the first formal acknowledgment of wrongdoing from the Argentine camp.

FIFA Investigation Under Way

Football's world governing body FIFA has confirmed it is investigating the post-match incidents. The outcome could result in suspensions, fines, or both for the players and officials involved. Notably, the altercations occurred after the final whistle, meaning match officials had no jurisdiction to issue red cards — a procedural gap that Gavi himself pointed to in his remarks.

Context and What Comes Next

Spain secured their second FIFA World Cup title with a tense 1-0 win in extra time, a historic achievement that was quickly overshadowed by the pitch-side violence. This is not the first time a major tournament final has been clouded by post-match confrontations, but the scale and the involvement of a coaching staff member make this episode particularly serious for FIFA's disciplinary committee. A ruling on potential bans is expected in the coming days.