Spanish footballers Fabián Ruiz and Gavi received an unusual reward after helping Spain win the 2026 FIFA World Cup: fresh tomatoes equal to their body weight.
The two midfielders were honoured in Los Palacios y Villafranca, their hometown in Spain’s Seville province, following the national team’s World Cup victory on Sunday, July 19. The tribute reflected the town’s strong association with tomato farming and celebrated two of its most prominent sporting figures.
During a ceremony at the town hall, Ruiz and Gavi were weighed before local officials presented them with the equivalent amount of tomatoes. Ruiz received about 84 kilograms of tomatoes, while Gavi was given approximately 68 kilograms.
The Spain footballers rewarded with tomatoes ceremony attracted attention because it replaced a conventional sporting prize with a gift closely connected to the region’s agricultural identity.
Tribute Reflects Local Tomato-Growing Tradition
Los Palacios y Villafranca is widely known for tomato production, making the locally grown crop a symbolic choice for the World Cup winners.
The tradition dates back to Spain’s first World Cup triumph in 2010, when former Spain international Jesús Navas, who also comes from the town, received a similar honour.
Ruiz and Gavi were also presented with commemorative banners featuring Tomatito, the mascot associated with the 1982 World Cup hosted by Spain.
Ruiz and Gavi Honoured for World Cup Roles
Ruiz, 30, played 366 minutes during the tournament and scored Spain’s opening goal against Belgium in the quarter-final. Gavi, 21, featured for 85 minutes across two matches during Spain’s title-winning campaign.
Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the World Cup final, with Ferran Torres scoring the winning goal in extra time. The victory secured Spain’s second men’s World Cup title after its first triumph in 2010.
Local authorities also honoured the players by naming football grounds after them and announcing plans for a monument celebrating Ruiz, Gavi and Navas.
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