Spain’s football stars received a unique hometown tribute after lifting the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Midfielders Fabián Ruiz and Gavi returned to their hometown of Los Palacios y Villafranca, near Seville, where thousands gathered to celebrate their World Cup success. Instead of medals or cash, the duo received their body weight in locally grown tomatoes about 153 kilograms (over 150kg) in total. Ruiz received around 84–85kg, while Gavi received about 68–69kg.
The unusual gift is a cherished local tradition. Los Palacios y Villafranca is famous for producing its prized “Bombón Colorado” tomatoes, making the fruit a symbol of community pride.
The tradition began after Spain’s 2010 World Cup victory, when hometown hero Jesús Navas was also honored with tomatoes matching his body weight.
During the celebration, Ruiz and Gavi signed the town’s Book of Honor, while local authorities announced plans to rename football fields after them and build a monument celebrating the town’s World Cup champions. The ceremony highlighted the players’ strong connection to their roots, with fans celebrating not just their World Cup triumph but also their journey from local football pitches to the world stage.
Spain’s World Cup victory sparked celebrations across the country, but the tomato tribute in Los Palacios stood out as one of the most memorable and uniquely Spanish honors for football champions.
