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.
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