Los Palacios, the Town That Produces Tomatoes and World Champions
A Town With Three World Champions
What are the odds that a town of just 38,000 inhabitants would produce three World Cup champions?
Well, those odds became reality in Los Palacios y Villafranca, a municipality in the province of Seville, Andalusia. It is the hometown of Fabián Ruiz and Gavi, who became world champions in 2026, as well as Jesús Navas, who lifted the trophy in 2010.
"It will always be a source of pride to carry the name of Los Palacios y Villafranca to every corner of the world. Thank you for making me feel so loved," said Fabián Ruiz, the PSG midfielder.
Meanwhile, his teammate Gavi said, "This is a day I will remember for the rest of my life. Becoming a World Cup champion alongside a fellow Palaciego and friend like Fabián is one of the greatest things that could happen. This World Cup is for everyone in Los Palacios. I hope you are proud."
Gavi played one match, totaling 71 minutes, while Fabián Ruiz appeared in all eight matches of the FIFA World Cup, scoring one goal against Belgium.
The Tradition That Makes Los Palacios Unique
The town of Los Palacios is known not only for producing three World Cup champions, but also for being one of Spain's leading tomato-producing regions. Because of that, it has a unique tradition: honoring its most distinguished citizens by giving them their weight in tomatoes.
During a ceremony at the town hall this week, Fabián Ruiz received 85 kilograms of Bombón Colorao tomatoes, while Gavi was honored with 68.5 kilograms. Both players were cheered by hundreds of Andalusians in their hometown, where they were welcomed back as heroes.
"It is something truly special for two great friends to achieve this for our town," said Jesús Navas, former Spain National Team player and World Cup champion, about the new world champions.
