The Slovenian Football Association has confirmed that World Cup final referee Slavko Vincic has officially hung up his whistle. The 46-year-old was chosen by FIFA to coach Spain’s landmark victory over Argentina in the United States, but chose to end his illustrious career just days later. The news was announced by his home country’s soccer association. An official statement read: “One week after the World Cup final in America, Slavko Vincic has officially ended his historic refereeing career at the top of the world.
“The Maribor native became the first Slovenian referee to take charge of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Grand Final between Spain and Argentina in East Rutherford, confirming his status as one of the greatest referees in history. In 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 Italy’s prestigious Giulio Campanati Award.”
The statement also highlighted his most notable achievements, including his appearance in three Europa League finals as referee for the 2022 highlight match between Eintracht Frankfurt and Rangers.
Two years later, he was in charge of the Champions League final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, and his extensive experience in high-stakes games appears to have been a key factor in his appointment to the World Cup final.
Vincic was visibly moved to tears when he learned he had been chosen for the honor. He was in charge of three matches in the early stages of the tournament, including the final between Ecuador and Mexico.
The Arsenal star was forced to leave the game after he put his hand over his mouth while speaking to a Mexican player during a tense confrontation.
Vincic also brandished a red card at MetLife Stadium after Argentina’s Enzo Fernandes received two yellow card warnings.
The 2022 world champions were lucky to only get sent off once, considering Leandro Parades’ terrible behavior after coming on as a substitute.
The midfielder was one of many players involved in the post-match scuffle, and was seen throwing punches as Vincic struggled to separate the two sides.
A FIFA investigation has been launched following the incident, which has not yet reached a definitive verdict, but the only thing that has been officially revealed is that Parades did not actually receive a red card from Vincic after the final whistle.
