BY KINGSLEY EMMANUEL
FIFA has appointed Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić to officiate the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina this Sunday at MetLife Stadium.
The selection marks the pinnacle of the 46-year-old’s career, making him the first Slovenian in football history to referee a World Cup final.
Vinčić leads an experienced crew for the tournament’s showpiece match. Fellow Slovenians Tomaž Klančnik and Andraž Kovačič will serve as assistant referees, while Jordan’s Adham Makhadmeh takes on the role of fourth official. Mohammad Al-Kalaf, also from Jordan, completes the lineup as the reserve assistant referee.
Widely regarded as one of Europe’s most elite officials, Vinčić’s resume includes handling the 2024 UEFA Champions League final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund and the 2022 UEFA Europa League final between Eintracht Frankfurt and Rangers. His international pedigree spans major tournaments including the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, UEFA Euro 2020 and 2024, as well as the 2017 U-17 and 2019 U-20 World Cups.
Known for his calm demeanor and authoritative management of high-stakes fixtures, Vinčić will be under the global spotlight as Spain and defending champions Argentina battle for football’s ultimate prize.
Millions of viewers worldwide are expected to tune in on Sunday as Spain chases a historic global triumph and Argentina fights to retain their crown.
