Slovenia’s Slavko Vinčić will officiate the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, as announced by FIFA on Thursday. The 46-year-old referee will be supported by his fellow countrymen Tomaž Klančnik and Andraž Kovačič, who will serve as assistant referees. Additionally, Jordan’s Adham Makhadmeh has been appointed as the fourth official for the match set to take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

During a ceremony attended by other World Cup officials, Vinčić received the news of his appointment from FIFA Chief Refereeing Officer Pierluigi Collina. “So, first of all, a shock. Then happiness. I was shaking, so it’s an incredible honor to get the World Cup final,” said Vinčić, who will be the first Slovenian to officiate the final. “It’s something that… it’s only a dream for a referee, for a young referee when they start. So, I’m very proud, very proud of myself, my team.”

Vinčić boasts considerable experience as a referee for major matches. He has officiated at Euro 2020, Euro 2024, and the 2022 World Cup, in addition to the finals of the 2022 Europa League and the 2024 Champions League. Last summer, he also acted as an official at the Club World Cup, which was hosted in the United States.

Throughout this World Cup, Vinčić has officiated three matches: Brazil vs. Morocco and Jordan vs. Algeria during the group stage, as well as the Round of 32 match between Mexico and Ecuador.

“First of all, it’s very difficult to put everything into words, but I’m very proud to represent my country, Slovenia, in the biggest sporting event in the world,” Vinčić stated. “So, yeah, I’m very proud. My team is very proud and we will do our best.”

Referees are evaluated based on their performances in each match, with the top crews selected for knockout rounds before identifying who will officiate the final.