The 2026 FIFA World Cup comes down to a dream final as Spain and Argentina meet at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford on Sunday.
It is a clash between the defending world champions and the reigning European champions while also setting up the first senior international meeting between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal.
Spain has been one of the strongest teams of the tournament so far. Luis de la Fuente's side has conceded just one goal on its way to the final, eliminating Portugal, Belgium, and France in the knockout rounds. Their 2-0 semifinal victory over France once again showcased their balance between defensive organization and attacking quality.
Argentina, meanwhile, is aiming to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup. Lionel Scaloni's side has defeated Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland, and England, with Lionel Messi continuing to lead from the front in what could be his final World Cup appearance.
Who Is the Referee for Spain vs. Argentina World Cup Final?
The referee for the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina is Slavko Vinčić of Slovenia.
Vinčić primarily officiates matches in the Slovenian PrvaLiga and has become one of UEFA's most trusted officials over the past several years.
Photo by Richard Heathcote - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
Before being appointed to the World Cup final, Vinčić officiated three matches at the 2026 tournament: the group-stage clash between Brazil and Morocco, the group-stage meeting between Jordan and Algeria, and the Round of 32 match between Mexico and Ecuador.
The 46-year-old is no stranger to major occasions. He previously refereed the 2024 UEFA Champions League final, where Real Madrid defeated Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium.
He also took charge of the 2022 UEFA Europa League final, which saw Eintracht Frankfurt defeat Rangers in a penalty shootout.
Who Are the Assistant Referees and VAR Officials for Spain vs. Argentina?
On-Field Officials
- Referee: Slavko Vinčić (Slovenia)
- Assistant Referee 1: Tomaž Klančnik (Slovenia)
- Assistant Referee 2: Andraž Kovačič (Slovenia)
- Fourth Official: Adham Makhadmeh (Jordan)
- Reserve Assistant Referee: Mohammad Al-Kalaf (Jordan)
VAR Team
- Video Assistant Referee (VAR): Bastian Dankert (Germany)
- Assistant VAR: Nicolás Gallo (Colombia)
- Support VAR: Khamis Al-Marri (Qatar)
- Standby VAR: Tatiana Guzmán (Nicaragua)
