Slavko Vinčić, Referee of the 2026 World Cup Final, Announces Retirement
Slavko Vinčić, the 46-year-old Slovenian referee who took charge of the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, has officially retired from his distinguished career at the highest level of football officiating. The Slovenian Football Association (NZS) announced his retirement on Monday, stating that Vinčić has "confirmed his status among the greatest referees in history."
The International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) recognized Vinčić as the best referee of the World Cup, praising his "clear and firm disciplinary control that characterizes elite refereeing." He was also awarded the prestigious "Giulio Campanati" prize in Italy.
Vinčić began his international refereeing career in 2010 and has officiated in multiple major tournaments, including the 2022 and 2026 World Cups, and the UEFA Euro 2020 and 2024. His notable matches include the 2024 Champions League final between Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid, the fierce Istanbul derby between Fenerbahçe and Galatasaray in February 2025, and the 2022 Europa League final featuring Eintracht Frankfurt and Rangers.
Another challenging fixture he oversaw was the 2025 Club World Cup goalless draw between River Plate and Monterrey last summer, which saw nine yellow cards and one red card issued.
Vinčić's retirement follows that of fellow prominent referee Anthony Taylor, who also officiated at the 2026 World Cup and cited intense pressure and media scrutiny as reasons for stepping down.
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