World football governing body FIFA has named experienced Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić as the centre referee for the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina.
The appointment was confirmed on Friday through FIFA’s official 𝕏 account, days before the championship match scheduled to take place in the United States.
Experienced Slovenian Team to Officiate Final
Vinčić will lead an all-Slovenian officiating crew on the pitch, with Tomaž Klančnik and Andraž Kovačič serving as the first and second assistant referees, respectively.
Jordanian official Adham Makhadmeh has been appointed as the fourth official, while Mohammad Alkalaf will act as the reserve assistant referee.
The final is set to be played at the New York New Jersey Stadium, which has a seating capacity of more than 80,000 spectators. Kick-off is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. local time (8:00 p.m. Nigerian time) on Sunday.
Spain and Argentina Set for World Cup Showdown
Spain booked their place in the final after overcoming France in the semi-finals, while reigning champions Argentina advanced by defeating Egypt, Switzerland, and England during the knockout rounds.
The encounter presents Argentina with an opportunity to retain the FIFA World Cup title they won in Qatar in 2022, with captain Lionel Messi expected to lead the South American giants once again.
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Spain, on the other hand, will be aiming to win only the second World Cup trophy in their history, having lifted their maiden title at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
Historic Final in Expanded Tournament
Sunday’s fixture will also mark a milestone in FIFA history as it will be the first World Cup final played under the tournament’s expanded 48-team format.
The 2026 edition featured 48 participating nations, increasing the competition from the previous 32-team format and making it the largest FIFA World Cup ever staged.
With football’s biggest prize at stake, all eyes will be on Vinčić and his officiating team as Spain and Argentina battle for global supremacy in what promises to be a memorable World Cup final.