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3 clusters · 18 sources · 38 days · First seen about 1 month ago · Last updated about 13 hours ago

Categories: SPORTS

Vinčić to referee 2026 World Cup final

Overview

FIFA reaffirmed on 17 July 2026 that Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić will officiate the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain at New York’s MetLife Stadium. The decision restates his credentials – FIFA‑listed since 2010, referee of the 2024 Champions League final, a Euro 2024 semi‑final and matches at two prior World Cups – and the same officiating crew: assistants Tomaz Klančnik and Andraz Kovacic, fourth official Adham Makhadmeh, and a VAR team led by German Bastian Dankert.

Vinčić has already refereed three matches in the 2026 tournament, issuing seven yellow cards, one red card and no penalties. The appointment reignited criticism, with some pointing to a disputed 2024 Champions League call that angered Real Madrid fans and to his 2020 detainment during a police raid in Bosnia, though he faced no charges. Former Polish referee Rafał Rostkowski called the choice a “scandal” and suggested political and commercial influence. FIFA’s referee director Pierluigi Collina defended Vinčić’s integrity, and many coaches and officials continue to back him.

Timeline

about 13 hours ago

[SPORTS] 11 sources
FIFA appoints Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić for 2026 World Cup final amid controversy
FIFA named Slovenian Slavko Vinčić to referee the Argentina‑Spain 2026 World Cup final, prompting criticism over past controversies and alleged political influence.
11 days ago

[SPORTS] 5 sources
Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić becomes unexpected World Cup 2026 sensation
Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić became a viral World Cup 2026 figure after an influencer praised his looks, reviving attention to his past Bijeljina controversy.
about 1 month ago

[SPORTS] 2 sources
FIFA names Slavko Vincic as referee for Brazil-Morocco World Cup opener
FIFA appointed Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic for the Brazil‑Morocco World Cup opener, despite his 2020 detention in Bosnia; his selection reignites debate over referee integrity.

Sources

alaraby.co.uk · diariodoestadogo.com.br · dnevno.hr · index.hr · kurir.rs · lacronicabadajoz.com · laopinioncoruna.es · levante-emv.com · news24online.com · nova.rs · ocio.farodevigo.es · primeirojornal.com.br · sport.gazeta.pl · sport.hrt.hr · sportal.rs · thecurrent.pk · udakuspecially.com · vetogate.com