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Rabat – According to FIFA, Slavko Vincic will take charge of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain.
FIFA’s chief refereeing officer, Pierluigi Collina, informed Vincic of his appointment, making him the first Slovenian to referee a World Cup final.
Vincic shared a very emotional moment with his team after the announcement and was not hesitant to thank his colleagues and family, expressing his gratitude and happiness.
“So, first of all, a shock. Then happiness. I was shaking; it’s a big honour to get the World Cup final,” he said, “ it’s only a dream for a referee, for young referees when they start, so I am very proud of myself and my team”.
Back in 2020, the Slovenian referee was arrested at a party in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Police officers found four packets of cocaine, pistols, protective vests, and over 10,000 euros.
Vincic claimed that he was invited to lunch and had nothing to do with that group; he was not accused of directly participating in the operation and was questioned as a witness.
The president of the Association of Football Referees of Slovenia defended Slavco Vincic and claimed that proceedings have been set up against him.
The 46-year-old has officiated Brazil vs Morocco, Jordan vs Algeria in the group stage, and Mexico vs Ecuador in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
He is an experienced referee who has taken charge of matches in crucial competitions such as the 2024 UEFA Champions League, the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, and the 2025 Club World Cup.
He will now officiate the game between La Albiceleste and Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday, 19 July, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
