FIFA has announced that referee Slavko Vinčić will take charge of Sunday’s World Cup final between Spain and Argentina.
The 46-year-old will be the first Slovenian to referee a World Cup final, which is the pinnacle of a career for players and referees alike.
“So, first of all, a shock. Then happiness. I was shaking, so it’s an incredible honor to get the World Cup final,” Vinčić said. “It’s something that … it’s only a dream for a referee, for a young referee when they start. So, I’m very proud, very proud of myself, my team.“
Like the previous three games he’s officiated at this World Cup, Vinčić will be assisted by his countrymen Tomaž Klančnik and Andraž Kovačič.
“Refereeing is all about teamwork,” Vinčić said. “So, without them, without Tomaž and Andraž, this is not possible.
“I’m really happy that I have had them throughout my career, throughout our careers. We are really good friends, a good team, and thanks to them.”
The Slovenian team has also taken charge of Brazil vs. Morocco and Jordan vs. Algeria in the group stage, as well as Mexico vs. Ecuador in the round of 32.
Jordanian Adham Makhadmeh will serve as the fourth official for the final, with his compatriot Mohammad Al-Kalaf as reserve assistant referee.
Bastian Dankert of Germany will serve as the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). He will be supported by Nicolas Gallo of Colombia and Khamis Al-Marri of Qatar.
Vinčić is at his second World Cup, having also officiated two games in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
He was also in charge of the 2024 UEFA Champions League final between Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid.
The match officials for @FIFAWorldCup Final have been appointed. 🤝
— FIFA (@FIFAcom) July 16, 2026
Who are Spain vs. Argentina referees?
The full list of referees for the World Cup final is as follows:
- Referee: Slavko Vinčić (Slovenia)
- Assistant Referee 1: Tomaž Klančnik (Slovenia)
- Assistant Referee 2: Andraž Kovačič (Slovenia)
- Fourth Official: Adham Makhadmeh (Jordan)
- ReserveAssistant Referee: Mohammad Al-Kalaf (Jordan)
- Video Assistant Referee (VAR): Bastian Dankert (Germany)
- Assistant VAR: Nicolas Gallo (Colombia)
- Support VAR: Khamis Al-Marri (Qatar)
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Slavko Vinčić to referee World Cup final between Spain and Argentina
