Slavko Vincic, the Slovenian referee appointed to officiate the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina in New Jersey, previously faced a career-threatening scandal when he was caught up in a police raid at a sex party in Bosnia-Herzegovina. The 46-year-old, who broke down in tears upon learning of his final assignment, was mistakenly arrested but never charged.
Vincic's Career Milestones
Vincic is considered one of Europe's most experienced officials, having taken charge of three matches at this summer's World Cup before being selected for the final. He also officiated the 2024 Champions League final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund and the 2022 Europa League final between Eintracht Frankfurt and Rangers.
The Police Raid Incident
Years earlier, Vincic feared his career could be over after he was detained during a police raid on a property in Bosnia-Herzegovina. He had accepted what he believed was a lunch invitation while on business, but the event turned out to be a party linked to a prostitution and drugs ring. Police held 35 people—26 men and nine women—and seized four packets of cocaine, 10 pistols, three protective vests, and around £8,500 in cash. Vincic was questioned as a witness and released without charge.
“I found myself on this ranch by chance. I have my own company, I was in Bosnia and Herzegovina for a business meeting. I accepted an invitation to lunch, which turned out to be my biggest mistake. I regret it,” Vincic said in a later interview. “I was sitting at a table with my company, all of a sudden the police came and what happened, happened. I have nothing to do with the group that was arrested and detained, nor do my business partners.”
The Slovenian FA defended him, stating he was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.
World Cup Final Officials
The full officiating team for the final includes assistant referees Tomaz Klancnik and Andraz Kovacic (both Slovenia), fourth official Adham Makhadmeh (Jordan), VAR Bastian Dankert (Germany), and assistant VARs Nicolas Gallo (Colombia) and Khamis Al Marri (Qatar). The match at MetLife Stadium features stars like Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi.
