FIFA Appoints Slavko Vinčić to Officiate Spain vs Argentina World Cup Final

FIFA has appointed Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić to officiate the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina.

The world football governing body announced the officiating team on its official X account on Friday ahead of Sunday’s title-deciding encounter.

Vinčić will be assisted by fellow Slovenians Tomaž Klančnik and Andraž Kovačič, who will serve as the first and second assistant referees respectively.

Jordan’s Adham Makhadmeh has been appointed as the fourth official, while Mohammad Alkalaf will perform the role of reserve assistant referee.

The World Cup final will be played at the 80,663-capacity New York New Jersey Stadium in the United States, with kick-off scheduled for 3:00 p.m. local time (EDT).

Spain secured their place in the final after defeating France in the semi-finals, while defending champions Argentina advanced by overcoming Egypt, Switzerland and England during the knockout stage.

Sunday’s encounter will be the 104th and final match of the expanded 48-team 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Argentina will be aiming to successfully defend the title they won at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and become the first nation to retain the trophy since Brazil achieved the feat in 1962.

Spain, meanwhile, will be chasing a second World Cup title after lifting their maiden trophy in South Africa in 2010.

The final also presents another opportunity for Argentina captain Lionel Messi to add to his remarkable international career, while Spain will be seeking to cap an impressive tournament by combining the World Cup with their status as reigning European champions.

The winner of Sunday’s showdown will be crowned the 2026 FIFA World Cup champion, bringing the month-long tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico to a close.