The Slovenian Football Association has announced that referee Slavko Vincic, aged 46, has officially ended his career. Vincic was selected by FIFA to oversee Spain's victory over Argentina in the World Cup final and has now decided to retire, as confirmed by his home country's football governing body.
Retirement Announcement
The association's statement opened: "One week after the World Cup final in the USA, Slavko Vinčić officially concluded his historic refereeing career at the very top of the world."
Vincic, a native of Maribor, became the first Slovenian head referee to officiate a World Cup final, cementing his place among the sport's greatest officials. The International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) named him the best referee of the World Cup, and he received the Giulio Campanati award in Italy.
World Cup Final Incident
During the final, Vincic issued a red card to Argentina's Enzo Fernandez after two yellow cards. Argentina's Leandro Paredes displayed poor conduct after being substituted, but was not formally shown a red card after the final whistle. FIFA launched an investigation into the post-match violence, requiring Vincic to file a report.
Career Highlights
The statement noted Vincic's previous achievements, including officiating three Europa League finals, such as the 2022 final between Frankfurt and Rangers, and the 2024 Champions League final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund. He reportedly cried upon learning of his World Cup final appointment.
Earlier in the tournament, Vincic dismissed Arsenal's Piero Hincapie after the player covered his mouth while speaking to a Mexico player during a heated exchange.
