Why Spain’s World Cup heroes were gifted tomatoes

n n

Spanish midfielders Gavi and Fabian Ruiz have received an unusual hometown tribute after helping Spain win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the pair rewarded with tomatoes equivalent to their body weight.

n

The players returned to their hometown of Los Palacios y Villafranca following Spain’s victory over Argentina in the World Cup final, where they were honoured in keeping with a long-standing local tradition.

n

According to reports, the municipality rewards local athletes who win major championships by presenting them with their weight in tomatoes, a symbolic gesture celebrating their achievements.

n

Fabian Ruiz received 187 pounds of tomatoes, while Gavi was given 151 pounds, bringing the total to 338 pounds of tomatoes for the two World Cup winners.

n

Images from the ceremony showed the Spanish internationals posing with crates of tomatoes as residents gathered to celebrate their historic achievement.

n

The tribute has been observed in Los Palacios y Villafranca for years as a way of recognising local sporting heroes.

n

Spain’s victory over Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final secured the country’s second World Cup title and cemented the squad’s place in Spanish football history.

n

The tomato presentation added a distinctive local touch to the nationwide celebrations, with Gavi and Ruiz joining the list of hometown athletes to receive the unique honour after winning a major international title.

n n