World Cup final ref retires days later as FIFA investigate Argentina chaos | Football | Sport
The Slovenian FA have confirmed that World Cup final referee Slavko Vincic has officially hung up his whistle. The 46-year-old was chosen by FIFA to oversee Spain’s landmark victory over Argentina in the United States and, only days later, has opted to bring his distinguished career to a close. The news was announced by the football association of his native country. Their official statement read: “One week after the World Cup final in the USA, Slavko Vinčić officially concluded his historic refereeing career at the very top of the world.
“The Maribor native became the first Slovenian head referee to officiate the grand final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup between Spain and Argentina in East Rutherford, confirming his status as one of the greatest officials in history. As the crowning achievement of his farewell season, the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) named him the best referee of the World Cup, and he received the prestigious Giulio Campanati award in Italy.”
The statement further highlighted his most notable accomplishments, including his involvement in three Europa League finals having been the referee for the 2022 showpiece between Eintracht Frankfurt and Rangers.
Two years on, he took charge of the Champions League final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, with his wealth of experience in high-stakes fixtures appearing to have been a significant factor in his appointment to the World Cup final.
Upon discovering he had been selected for the honour, Vincic was visibly moved to tears. He had taken charge of three matches during the earlier stages of the tournament, including the knockout encounter between Ecuador and Mexico.
He was forced to send off Piero Hincapie in that fixture after the Arsenal star placed his hand over his mouth while addressing a Mexico player during a tense confrontation.
The red card was also brandished by Vincic at MetLife Stadium following Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez picking up two yellow card cautions.
The 2022 world champions were fortunate to finish with just one dismissal, given Leandro Parades’ appalling behaviour after entering the pitch as a substitute.
The midfielder was among numerous players embroiled in a post-match melee, and appeared to even throw punches, with Vincic battling to separate the warring parties.
A FIFA investigation was opened following the incident, though a conclusive verdict has yet to be reached, with the sole official clarification being that Parades did not in fact receive a red card from Vincic after the final whistle.
