Referee Slavko Vincic retires after World Cup final controversy
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 27, 2026, 8:20 AM
Last updated Jul 27, 2026
Slavko Vincic has announced his retirement after officiating the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina last weekend. The Slovenian referee faced backlash for his management of Argentina's physical play during the match, which ended with Spain winning 1-0 in extra time, highlighted by a controversial red card for Enzo Fernandez in stoppage time. Following the final, FIFA is investigating post-match altercations involving players from both teams. Vincic's retirement comes after a distinguished career, having officiated multiple high-profile matches, including the Champions League final and Euro 2020.
- •Vincic retires one week after the World Cup final.
- •He received criticism for handling Argentina's physical play.
- •FIFA is investigating post-match incidents between players.
- •Vincic has been recognized as a top referee in international competitions.
- •He officiated the 2024 Champions League final and Euro 2020.
- 4:18 PMYahoo Sports — 2026 FIFA World Cup Final referee Slavko Vinčić announces retirement
- 8:33 AMYahoo Sports — Whistle blows on career of World Cup final referee Slavko Vincic
- 8:20 AMYahoo Sports — World Cup final referee Slavko Vincic retires days after controversial Spain vs Argentina clash
"World Cup final referee Slavko Vincic has retired just a week on from the tournament’s conclusion. The Slovenian received widespread criticism for allowing Argentina’s physical approach as they were beaten 1-0 by Spain in extra time.
"Slavko Vinčić has officially retired from refereeing after overseeing the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final between Spain and Argentina, with the Slovenian FA confirming the news in an official statement
"Vincic took charge of the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina last weekend
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJul 27, 2026, 4:18 PM2026 FIFA World Cup Final referee Slavko Vinčić announces retirement
Slavko Vinčić has officially retired from refereeing after overseeing the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final between Spain and Argentina, with the Slovenian FA confirming the news in an official statement
- Yahoo SportsJul 27, 2026, 8:33 AMWhistle blows on career of World Cup final referee Slavko Vincic
World Cup final referee Slavko Vincic has retired just a week on from the tournament’s conclusion. The Slovenian received widespread criticism for allowing Argentina’s physical approach as they were beaten 1-0 by Spain in extra time.
- Yahoo SportsJul 27, 2026, 8:20 AMWorld Cup final referee Slavko Vincic retires days after controversial Spain vs Argentina clash
Vincic took charge of the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina last weekend
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