Slavko Vinčić referee footage reveals World Cup final interactions

FIFA has released body-camera footage from referee Slavko Vinčić during the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. The footage provides a unique perspective of the match, which Spain won 1-0 in extra time.

The recordings capture several key interactions, most notably Vinčić pleading with Argentina captain Lionel Messi to “control” teammate Leandro Paredes. Vinčić warned Messi that Paredes, who had already received a yellow card, was at risk of being sent off due to his aggressive play.

The footage also shows Vinčić’s final professional moments. Following the match, Spanish player Dani Olmo approached the referee to congratulate him, at which point Vinčić revealed that the final would be the last game of his career. The video also captures the medal ceremony involving FIFA President Gianni Infantino and US President Donald Trump.