Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic has been appointed to take charge of the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina on Sunday in New Jersey. The 46-year-old will be assisted by fellow Slovenians Tomaz Klancnik and Andraz Kovacic, with Jordan's Adham Mohammad Tumah Makhadmeh serving as the fourth official and Mohammad Alkalaf as reserve assistant.
Vincic's Career and Experience
Vincic has been a FIFA-listed referee since 2010 and officiated at Euro 2012 as an additional assistant. His appointment was met with emotion, as he was embraced by colleagues and FIFA president Gianni Infantino upon hearing the news. He has overseen numerous European fixtures, making him familiar to many Spain and Argentina players. For instance, Nicolas Otamendi received a yellow card from Vincic during Benfica's Champions League match against Real Madrid last season.
World Cup 2026 Record
Sunday's final will be Vincic's fourth game at the 2026 World Cup. He previously refereed the group stage draw between Brazil and Morocco, Algeria's win over Jordan, and Mexico's round of 32 victory over Ecuador, where he sent off Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie for covering his mouth while speaking to an opponent.
Spain's Lucky Charm?
Vincic's appointment could be favorable for Spain. Since June 2017, Spain are unbeaten in five matches under his officiation, winning their last three, including a Euro 2024 semi-final victory over France where he booked Lamine Yamal.
Argentina's Record Under Vincic
Argentina have played only one game with Vincic as referee, a significant one: their shock 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia in the 2022 World Cup group stage, despite taking the lead through a Lionel Messi penalty. That defeat remains Argentina's last World Cup loss.
Match Significance
The final pits European champions Spain against reigning world champions Argentina, with both seeking history. Spain aim for a second Euros-World Cup double, while Argentina look to become the third nation to win back-to-back World Cups, after Italy (1934, 1938) and Brazil (1958, 1962). The match also marks the first meeting between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal on the same stage.
