Watch: Slovenian referee breaks down in tears after final World Cup appointment

ByTech Word News

Being a part of the FIFA World Cup Finals is an emotional moment for the players involved as they step up to represent their countries on the biggest stage of all. And when it comes to referees, Slovenian Slavko Vincic showed that it’s the same for them too.

Vincic has been selected as the main referee for the top-flight clash between Argentina and Spain in New York on Sunday 19 July, alongside compatriots Tomaz Klancnik and Andraz Kovačič, who will act as assistant referees.

As the announcement was made in front of the referee, Vincic fought back tears and was quickly congratulated by the others.

You can watch the full video below:

FIFA WORLD CUP FINALS: REFEREES LINE-UP

  • Referee: Slavko Vincic
  • Assistant referee 1: Tomáš Klančnik
  • Assistant referee 2: Andraz Kovačic
  • Fourth Official: Adham Makhadmeh
  • Reserve Assistant Referee: Mohammad Alkalaf

INFLUENTIAL CAREER OF REFEREES VINCICE

Slavko Vincic is one of the most experienced UEFA referees, he has been a FIFA official since 2010. He has overseen several tournaments over the years, including the UEFA Champions League final in 2024. At international level, he managed two matches during the 2022 FIFA World Cup and has already taken charge of three matches in the ongoing edition.

His last appearance at the tournament came on July 1, when Mexico defeated Ecuador 2–0 in the round of 32. The fiercely contested encounter saw several bookings, with Ecuador’s Piero Hincapie shown a straight red card after breaching FIFA regulations by covering his mouth and tackling Mexico striker Santiago Gimenez.

Klancnik and Kovačic have formed a long-term official partnership and have been working together on the international circuit for more than 10 years. He will rejoin Vinci’s team, while veteran Jordanian official Adham Makhadmeh has been appointed as the fourth official. Fellow Jordanian Mohammad Alkalaf will serve as reserve assistant referee for the spectacular clash.

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Published on:

Jul 17, 2026 10:21 am IST