FIFA World Cup 2026 Final: FIFA has revealed the referees for the highly-anticipated FIFA World Cup final between reigning champions Argentina and Spain on July 19, as well as the third-place playoff between England and France. Slovenians Tomaz Klancnik and Andraz Kovacic have been named as the first and second assistant referees respectively, with fellow Slovenian Slavko Vincic appointed as the chief referee for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. Adham Makhadmeh has been named as the fourth official with Mohammad Alkalaf named as the reserve assistant.
Slavko Vincic announced as FIFA World Cup 2026 final referee
Introducing your referee for the @FIFAWorldCup 2026 Final….🥁
Congratulations, Slavko Vinčić! 👏 pic.twitter.com/OMLJ3oA31p
— FIFA (@FIFAcom) July 17, 2026
Head of refereeing at FIFA, Pierluigi Collina announced Slavko Vincic as the referee for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Argentina and Spain. In a video shared on social media, Collina can be heard saying, “Playing with golden stripes is something beautiful. I am sure you agree with me. It’s beautiful and it’s absolutely great. As well, it’s great that the referee will be Slavko Vincic.”
FIFA announces referee for England vs France 3rd Place Match
The match officials for @FIFAWorldCup Bronze Final have been appointed. 🤝
— FIFA (@FIFAcom) July 16, 2026
Jesus Valenzuela from Venezuela has been chosen by FIFA as a referee for the match between France and England that counts for the third place. His two fellow countrymen, Jorge Urrego and Tulio Moreno, will act as first and second assistant referees respectively. Jalal Jayed is the fourth official and Zakaria Brinsi is the reserve assistant referee.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Final: Argentina vs Spain
Argentina secured a thrilling 2-1 comeback win over England in the semifinal, overturning a first-half deficit with Enzo Fernandez scoring the equaliser before Lautaro Martinez netted the stoppage-time winner to send the defending champions into the title clash against Spain. Notably, Messi also played a pivotal role in Argentina’s victory. Although he did not get on the scoresheet, the captain provided assists for both of the defending champions’ goals, proving instrumental in their comeback triumph.
Spain, on the other hand, secured a place in the FIFA World Cup final for the first time since their 2010 triumph after defeating France 2-0 with a composed performance. Lamine Yamal played a key role in the win, winning a penalty after dispossessing Lucas Digne, which Mikel Oyarzabal converted in the 22nd minute to give Spain the lead. Pedro Porro doubled Spain’s advantage after the break following a fine move with Dani Olmo, while France struggled to create clear chances.
