Referee Slavko Vincic Steps Down Following Messi's World Cup Drama

WHO:

MARCA - Slavko Vincic, a 46-year-old Slovenian referee.

AOL.com - Lionel Messi, captain of the Argentina National Team.

AOL.com - Enzo Fernández, Argentine midfielder sent off during the match.

AOL.com - Ferran Torres, who scored the extra-time winner for Spain.

AOL.com - Leandro Paredes, Argentine midfielder involved in post-match altercations.

AOL.com - Gavi, Spanish player involved in the post-match incident.

WHAT:

MARCA - Slavko Vincic announced his retirement from officiating one week after the World Cup final.

AOL.com - Vincic faced criticism for his handling of Argentina’s physical approach during the match.

AOL.com - The match ended with Spain defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time.

AOL.com - FIFA is investigating post-match scenes involving player clashes.

AOL.com - Vincic officiated four matches during the World Cup.

AOL.com - Vincic was named the World Cup’s best referee by IFFHS and AIA.

WHERE:

MARCA - The World Cup final took place in New Jersey, USA.

AOL.com - The 2024 Champions League final was held where Real Madrid secured their title against Borussia Dortmund.

WHEN:

AOL.com - Vincic's retirement was announced one week after the World Cup final.

AOL.com - Vincic officiated the 2024 semi-final between Spain and France.

AOL.com - Vincic refereed the 2022 Europa League final.

WHY:

MARCA - Vincic expressed overwhelming emotions upon being assigned to officiate the World Cup final.

AOL.com - The criticism stemmed from his management of Argentina's physical play during the match.

HOW:

MARCA - Vincic and his officiating team prepared by studying the tactical and behavioral conduct of players from both teams.

MARCA - Vincic defended the use of VAR, stating it is essential for modern football officiating.

(UPDATED July 30, 2026 13:37 UTC)

Slavko Vincic, a 46-year-old Slovenian referee, has announced his retirement from officiating just one week after the World Cup final, where he faced criticism for his management of Argentina's physical play during their match against Spain, which ended in a 1-0 defeat for Argentina after extra time. Vincic officiated four matches during the tournament and was recognized as the World Cup’s best referee by IFFHS and AIA, but now FIFA is investigating post-match altercations involving players like Enzo Fernández and Gavi. The World Cup final took place in New Jersey, USA, and Vincic expressed overwhelming emotions when assigned to officiate the prestigious event, emphasizing the importance of VAR in modern football.