Support TIME. Preserve the truth.
World Cup 2026

World Cup final referee retires

Slavko Vinčić

Slovenian football referee Slavko Vinčić has ended his career just a week after refereeing the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina.

Vinčić has retired at the age of 46, the Football Federation of Slovenia has confirmed.

He leaves at the peak of his career, right after refereeing the biggest possible match in football.

Vinčić became an international referee in 2010. He has had an impressive career, including refereeing the Champions League final. 

He was in two World Cups and several European Championships.