Polish referee Szymon Marciniak left out of World Cup 2026 knockout stage

Polish referee Szymon Marciniak officiated only two group‑stage matches – Argentina vs Algeria and Egypt vs Iran – at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. FIFA did not assign him to any knockout‑round games, the semi‑finals or the final. Marciniak posted a video on Instagram saying the tournament had ended for him, noting the “logical” rule that a referee cannot lead a World Cup final within four years and acknowledging a feeling of “undone” disappointment.

He explained that past decisions, such as not issuing a red card to Lionel Messi in the group stage, may have influenced the appointment. Former German referee Patrick Ittrich also voiced confusion over FIFA’s choice. The final was ultimately refereed by Slovenian Slavko Vincić, while other referees handled the semi‑finals and third‑place match. Marciniak’s limited role and his comments sparked debate among pundits and fans, but he was praised for his performance in the matches he did oversee.