Slavko Vincic turned emotional when FIFA announced him as the referee for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final on July 19. The Slovenian will officiate the title decider where Lionel Messi’s Argentina and Lamine Yamal’s Spain will battle it out for the coveted prize. While unveiling the match officials for the tournament finale, FIFA also named the referees for the third-place playoff, which will feature the other two semi-finalists– England and France.
Venezuela’s Jesus Valenzuela will be in charge of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Bronze final. He will be assisted by Jorge Urrego and Tulio Moreno on the field. Jalal Jayed is the fourth official, while Zakaria Brinsi remains the reserve assistant referee.
Who are the referees in Spain vs Argentina?
While Slavko Vincic has been appointed the first referee, fellow Slovenians Tomaz Klancnik and Andraz Kovacic will serve as his assistants. Adham Makhadmeh is the fourth official of the Spain vs Argentina final, and Mohammad Alkalaf is the reserve assistant referee.
The match officials for @FIFAWorldCup Final have been appointed. 🤝
— FIFA (@FIFAcom) July 16, 2026
Spain vs Argentina: FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Preview
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. Yamal had a goal ruled out for offside, and despite late efforts from Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni, Spain’s defence held firm to secure their sixth clean sheet in seven tournament matches.
(With inputs from ANI)
