Sports
World Cup final referee Slavko Vinčić retires after 2026 tournament
Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić has announced his retirement from officiating, just one week after taking charge of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final in North America.
Vinčić officiated the final between Spain and Argentina, which ended in a 1-0 extra-time victory for Spain, securing their second FIFA World Cup title.
The experienced official came under intense criticism following the match, with many questioning his handling of Argentina’s physical style of play during the encounter.
Vinčić also sent off Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernández shortly before extra time, a decision that generated widespread debate among football fans and pundits.
The aftermath of the final was equally controversial, with FIFA launching an investigation into the post-match scenes after players and members of the coaching staff from both teams were involved in clashes on the pitch.
Confirming his retirement, the Slovenian Football Association paid tribute to the veteran referee in a statement.
“A week after the World Cup final in the USA, Slavko Vinčić officially concluded his historic refereeing career at the top of the world,” the association said.
Vinčić’s retirement brings an end to a distinguished refereeing career during which he officiated some of the biggest matches in international and European football, culminating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
Follow Us on Google Discover
ADC suffers setback as thousands of supporters defect to APC in Sokoto
Nnamdi Kanu writes from Sokoto Prison, fires longtime lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor (Photos)
BREAKING: Reps intensify PFIPC probe, gives IGP Wednesday deadline to produce self-acclaimed DG Adeniyi
‘We Can’t Run a Country on Vibes’ — Rufai Oseni blasts Peter Obi’s interview, says he should tell Nigerians how he’ll solve problems
Xenophobia: Tinubu softens stance, agrees to meet South African envoy after Ramaphosa’s phone call
ASUU: AAUA students give Ondo govt 72-hour ultimatum to end strike
Panic as three-storey student hostel collapses in Anambra, traps many
Tinubu came when Nigeria needed him most — Okowa
Super Falcons hit by racist abuse ahead of WAFCON title defence
World Cup final referee Slavko Vinčić retires after 2026 tournament
WAFCON: Vilda praises Morocco’s performance in 4-0 victory against Kenya
FIFA president hits back at 2026 World Cup critics
Real Madrid open new contract talks with Vinicius amid Arsenal interest
Commonwealth Games: Edidiong Umoafia lifts Nigeria to another gold medal
Nwabali back between the sticks as Chippa United clinch Eastern Cape crown
One State missing as APC uploads 27 governorship candidates to INEC portal (Full List)
Xenophobia: Tinubu snubs South African president’s envoy; delegation stranded in Abuja
Step-by-step guide to registering for the NDE RHEI Phase 3 programme
Kaduna 2027: Uba Sani dumps Muslim-Muslim ticket, picks Christian running mate from Southern Kaduna
Electricity: Tinubu finally copied my 21-Year power sector blueprint — Atiku
2027: ‘It’s not the North’s birthright to always rule Nigeria,’ Kwankwaso says
“He likes silk cigarettes very much” – Babachir Lawal speaks on Tinubu’s lifestyle
Obi-Kwankwaso ticket will defeat Tinubu, Atiku in 2027 — Babachir Lawal
BREAKING: Two killed, dozens missing as herdsmen attack Benue communities
‘True Wealth Is the Lives We Uplift’ — Maituta celebrates Wife’s birthday
Tinubu’s govt budgets ₦962.83bn for new SUVs, empowerment projects amid rising debt, hardship
‘Jonathan met militants, who’ll meet Boko Haram, bandits?’ – Gumi questions FG
Benue probes suspected Mpox cases in Konshisha LG
2027: Tinubu hosts NDC chieftains Hanga, Gaya at Aso Villa
