Argentina international Leandro Paredes has spoken for the first time since Argentina’s World Cup final defeat to Spain.
Paredes was sent off after Ferran Torres’ 106th-minute goal secured Spain’s victory. Things got salty after the match as several members of the Argentina squad were involved in a mass confrontation.
Paredes was at the center of the incident, punching and pushing an opposing player.
Footage also showed him grabbing Eric Garcia by the throat before grappling with Gavi and throwing the Barcelona youngster to the ground.
Leandro Paredes gets violent against Gavi of Spain (9) after the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina. (Photo by Marvin Ibo Guengoer – GES Sportfoto/Getty Images)
Despite the controversy surrounding his actions, Paredes chose not to address the post-match brawl in his first public comments. Instead, he posted an emotional message on Instagram, writing: “THANK YOU, ARGENTINA!!! I LOVE YOU, TODAY AND ALWAYS. Today, I write with a heavy heart, having been unable to bring our country the joy it so richly deserves – but with a chest full of pride for having given everything we had and for flying our flag at the very top once again!”
He added: “Thank you to everyone who was part of this team, to this group of players who gave their all to represent this jersey, just as they did until the very last second of every match! It was an honor to be part of the best Argentine national team in history!”
Leandro Paredes hits Gavi. (Photo by Marvin Ibo Guengoer – GES Sportfoto/Getty Images)
Despite multiple footages showing the controversial incidents, BBC Sport reported that Paredes’ red card was later removed from the official record and no disciplinary action was taken immediately by FIFA.
Paredes may yet face punishment despite his immediate reprieve, with FIFA expected to investigate the full-time scenes following Spain’s World Cup triumph.
The outcome of FIFA’s investigation will determine whether further disciplinary action follows one of the tournament’s most controversial moments.
