Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić has announced his retirement from professional football officiating, bringing an end to a distinguished career that culminated in overseeing the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
The 46-year-old made history as the first Slovenian referee to officiate a FIFA World Cup final, where Spain defeated Argentina to lift their second world title. He also received the award for the tournament’s Best Referee after officiating four matches.
The Slovenia Football Association confirmed his retirement, describing Vinčić as one of the greatest referees in football history and praising him for ending his career at the pinnacle of the sport.
Before his World Cup assignment, Vinčić had officiated both the UEFA Champions League and Europa League finals, earning a reputation as one of Europe’s top match officials.
He began his refereeing career at the age of 20, turned professional in 2007, and became a FIFA-listed referee in 2010. Throughout the 2026 World Cup, he issued three red cards, including dismissals involving Argentina’s Enzo Fernándezand Leandro Paredes during and after the final.
