Slavko Vincic to Officiate 2026 FIFA World Cup Final Between Argentina and Spain
Exciting Matchup at MetLife Stadium
Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic has been appointed to oversee the final match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Argentina will face Spain at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sunday, July 19.
This prestigious tournament is nearing its conclusion, with Argentina, the defending champions, set to clash with Spain in a momentous final. Both teams secured their spots in this championship match by defeating England and France in the semifinals.
Third-Place Playoff Ahead of the Final
Before the championship showdown, England and France will compete for third place at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on Saturday, July 18, marking the second-to-last match of the tournament.
Vincic's Historic Appointment
Being chosen as the main referee for the FIFA World Cup final is a significant achievement in a referee's career, symbolizing years of hard work and excellence. For Slavko Vincic, this moment fulfills a lifelong aspiration.
FIFA's Chief Refereeing Officer, Pierluigi Collina, expressed his admiration for Vincic's appointment, highlighting its importance both aesthetically and professionally. He stated, "Wearing golden stripes is a beautiful thing, and it’s wonderful that Slavko Vincic will be the referee."
Emotional Reaction from Vincic
Upon receiving the news of his appointment, Vincic was visibly emotional, struggling to contain his tears. In an interview with FIFA, he shared his initial shock and subsequent joy, calling it an 'incredible honor' and a dream come true for any young referee.
Profile of Slavko Vincic
Slavko Vincic, born on November 25, 1979, in Maribor, Slovenia, has been a FIFA-listed referee since 2010. His extensive experience includes officiating at top-tier events.
His role in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final adds to a distinguished career that includes officiating the 2022 UEFA Europa League, the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and the 2024 Euro Cup semifinal between Spain and France.
Vincic was also the referee during Argentina's surprising 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia in the group stage of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which remains the only match Argentina has lost under his supervision.
Vincic's Journey to the Final
In the current FIFA World Cup, Vincic has officiated two group-stage matches, including Brazil vs. Morocco and Jordan vs. Algeria, as well as a Round of 32 match between Mexico and Ecuador.
This final marks a historic milestone as Vincic becomes the first Slovenian referee to officiate a FIFA World Cup final, a testament to his rise through the ranks of elite European football.
Joining Vincic on the officiating team will be his fellow Slovenian referees Tomaz Klancnik and Andraz Kovacic as assistants, with Jordanian official Adham Makhadmeh serving as the fourth official and Mohammad Al-Kalaf as the reserve assistant referee.