Slavko Vinčić of Slovenia will referee the World Cup final on Sunday between Argentina and Spain. The match marks a return to the sport’s biggest stage for the official, who was also in charge of a Champions League final two years ago.
Quick facts
- World Cup final: Argentina vs Spain on Sunday
- Referee: Slavko Vinčić (Slovenia)
- Vinčić previously refereed a Champions League final two years ago
- FIFA named the referee late on Thursday
- Argentina will again face a European opponent with a European referee
- In three 2026 World Cup matches, Vinčić has produced seven yellow cards and one red card
- No penalty kicks have been awarded in Vinčić’s 2026 World Cup games
FIFA confirmed the appointment late Thursday, and it continues a pattern that has drawn attention. It will be the second consecutive World Cup final in which Argentina—now the defending champion—has a European referee while also taking on a European opponent.
The decision comes amid heightened scrutiny of officiating during the current tournament. Criticism has focused on the idea that Argentina may have benefited from certain calls, including an incident in which Lionel Messi was not shown a red card after a rough challenge against an Algeria player.
Concerns have been raised by teams outside the finalists as well. The coaches of Egypt and South Africa have pointed to inconsistencies in decision-making, adding to the debate around refereeing standards.
After Egypt lodged a formal allegation of bias following its 3-2 defeat to Argentina, FIFA’s director of referees Pierluigi Collina responded strongly. He said: “Nobody can question the integrity of the FIFA World Cup match officials.”
Vinčić’s World Cup record so far
Across three matches at the 2026 World Cup, Vinčić has issued seven yellow cards and one red card. He has not awarded any penalty kicks in those appearances.
His involvement in the tournament also includes two group-stage games. Brazil and Morocco played to a 1-1 draw under his watch, while Algeria went on to beat Jordan 2-1 in another match he officiated.
