Of course, when France and Spain face off in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinal on Tuesday, July 14, the spotlight will be on the likes of Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal.
However, one of the most important people on the pitch will be referee Iván Barton, who has already been the subject of discussion among soccer fans due to his controversial decisions.
The Salvadoran official has become one of the best referees in CONCACAF, having worked at two FIFA World Cups and other big international events.
But his career has also seen several high-profile incidents that have split opinion, and he is one of the most closely watched officials in international soccer.
Red Cards Dominate Barton's 2026 World Cup Headlines
The most significant Barton controversy that erupted during the 2026 FIFA World Cup was in Turkey vs. Paraguay.
Barton showed Paraguay captain Miguel Almirón a straight red card after a VAR review, making him the first player sent off under FIFA's new law that penalizes players for covering their mouths while verbally abusing opponents or match officials.
(Photo by Alfredo Lopez/Jam Media/Getty Images)
FIFA's rules were in favor of the decision, but many fans and analysts wondered if the punishment was warranted. The incident was soon one of the most discussed moments in the tournament, with social media buzzing with criticism and discussion regarding the interpretation of the new rule.
The decision also placed Barton under increased scrutiny heading into one of the biggest assignments of his career.
Other Controversies in Iván Barton's Career
Barton has a history of dealing with heated matches.
He issued four red cards during the 2023 CONCACAF Nations League semifinal between the United States and Mexico when things heated up late in the game. The game was ultimately called off early after repeated racist chants from the crowd triggered CONCACAF's anti-discrimination protocol.
Some applauded Barton's ability to keep the game under control, while others felt the game had gone too far out of hand under his leadership.
Another controversial moment was when, during CONCACAF World Cup qualifying, Barton gave Mexico a late penalty against Panama.
Barton was also criticized at the 2022 FIFA World Cup for his officiating of England's Round of 16 win over Senegal. There were no game-changers, but fans on both sides were wondering about his consistency in handling physical issues and discipline.
Every whistle and every VAR decision will be scrutinized as the World Cup final approaches. With Barton's controversial past, he is sure to be one of the most discussed players on the field, regardless of the outcome.
