Spain's World Cup Champions Celebrate With Tomato Rewards
WHO:
Yahoo Sports - Spanish soccer players Fabián Ruiz and Gavi were honored.
Fox News - The players are from Los Palacios y Villafranca.
beIN SPORTS - The event included former Spain player Jesús Navas.
WHAT:
Yahoo Sports - The tradition of awarding tomatoes began in 2010 when Spain won its first World Cup title.
Yahoo Sports - Ruiz has won two major titles, including the 2024 European Championship, while this is Gavi's first major title.
Yahoo Sports - Ruiz stated, “There are moments one cherishes forever, and returning home after winning a World Cup is one of them. It will always be a source of pride to carry the name Palacios Villafranca to every corner of the globe. Thank you for making me feel so loved in the best town in the world. Your affection means more than any title.”
Yahoo Sports - Gavi described the occasion as “a day to remember,” adding, “Becoming a world champion alongside a fellow native of Los Palacios and a friend like Fabián is one of the greatest things imaginable. This World Cup goes out to all the people of Los Palacios, and I hope they are proud of all of us.”
Fox News - Both players were given banners adorned with Tomatito, the mascot of the World Cup tournament that was hosted by Spain in 1982.
Fox News - Spain will return to co-hosting duties alongside Portugal and Morocco in 2030, which will also see opening matches in three South American countries: Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
BBC - Ruiz is to receive 85 kilograms (187 pounds) of tomatoes, while Gavi will receive 68.5 kilograms (151 pounds) in a tradition that local officials say "has become a hallmark of the municipality for honouring its great athletes."
Yahoo Sports - Ruiz received 84 kilograms (185 pounds) of tomatoes, while Gavi received 68 kilograms (150 pounds).
Fox News - The players were awarded their body weight in tomatoes as a sign of respect.
Yahoo Sports - The town has renamed the current Marismas and San Sebastian stadiums after the two players.
Fox News - Spain won the World Cup against Argentina with a score of 1-0, thanks to Ferran Torres' extra-time goal.
WHERE:
Yahoo Sports - The ceremony took place in Los Palacios y Villafranca, Andalusia, Spain.
Fox News - Los Palacios y Villafranca is located in the southern region of Spain.
WHEN:
Yahoo Sports - The World Cup victory occurred on July 19, 2026.
Fox News - The ceremony for Ruiz and Gavi took place upon their return home after the World Cup win.
WHY:
BBC - The town council wants to pay permanent tribute to three athletes who represent the pride of an entire town and who have become role models for several generations of children and young people.
Yahoo Sports - The tomatoes were given as a show of pride and gratitude from their hometown.
HOW:
BBC - The town council plans to construct a monument dedicated to the three champions from Los Palacios, which will serve as a permanent tribute to their achievements.
BBC - The town council plans to construct a monument dedicated to the three champions from Los Palacios, which will serve as a permanent tribute to their achievements.
BBC - The town hall will promote the construction of a monument dedicated to the three champions from Los Palacios.
Yahoo Sports - The players were publicly weighed at the town hall before receiving their tomatoes.
Spain's tradition of awarding tomatoes began in 2010 after the national team secured its first World Cup title, and this year, Gavi celebrated his first major title alongside Ruiz, who has two major titles, including the 2024 European Championship. In honor of their achievements, the town council plans to construct a monument dedicated to the three champions from Los Palacios, creating a lasting tribute to their success. This initiative reflects the pride and recognition of their contributions to Spanish football.