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Vincic ends his refereeing career after the World Cup final

By OnzeActu · · 5 min read

Vincic ends his refereeing career after the World Cup final

Slavko Vincic is hanging up the whistle after leading the 2026 World Cup final, capping an international career marked by high-profile matches and impressive statistics.

Why it matters

Slavko Vincic's decision to end his career after officiating the 2026 World Cup final marks the end of an era for a respected referee. With an impressive track record, Vincic has navigated high-pressure matches, including Champions League and Europa League finals, cementing his status in the world of football. His departure leaves a void in international refereeing, especially in the run-up to major tournaments like the 2026 World Cup.

Context

Slavko Vincic, 46-year-old referee, has officiated 513 matches in total, including major competitions like the Champions League and Europa League. His career has been marked by controversial decisions, notably during the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, where he punished Enzo Fernández. His career on the FIFA list since 2010 testifies to his recognition within the international football community.

Key points

  • Vincic ends his refereeing career after the World Cup final.
  • Slavko Vincic hangs up the whistle after leading the 2026 World Cup final, concluding an international career marked by high-profile matches and impressive statistics.
  • Vincic zet na fluiten WK-finale punt achter scheidsrechterscarrière.
Slavko Vincic has decided to end his refereeing career on a high: the 46-year-old Slovenian hangs up the whistle exactly one week after officiating the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina at MetLife Stadium in New York. According to the same press release, Vincic chose to leave on this final big stage, at the end of a long and regular international career.

The World Cup final once again placed him in the spotlight, especially since the Slovenian had to face the many theories and controversies that surrounded the Argentine team during the competition. On the pitch, Vincic notably sanctioned Enzo Fernández with a second yellow card at the end of regulation time – a card deemed correct by the referee – and completed the match without major disciplinary incidents concerning him.

A referee listed on the FIFA list since 2010, Vincic leaves behind a significant quantitative record. In total, he will have officiated in 513 official matches in all competitions. In terms of sanctions, he is credited with 2,135 yellow cards, 70 second yellow cards, 47 direct red cards and 120 penalties awarded during his career.

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In terms of major matches, Vincic has already been chosen for other European finals: he managed the 2022 Europa League final between Eintracht Frankfurt and Rangers FC, then the 2023 Champions League final between Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid. These meetings demonstrate the confidence of the authorities in the Slovenian on the highest stages.

Vincic also has extensive experience with Dutch clubs: he has officiated ten matches involving Dutch teams, including some memorable matches. He was on the whistle for Feyenoord's victory over Sevilla in the 2014/15 Europa League group stage – a match in which Jens Toornstra opened the scoring and Karim El Ahmadi sealed the victory with a superb volley – and more than a decade later he was still the man in black in PSV's spectacular 3-1 victory over Juventus in the Champions League mid-stage.

At 46 years old and after more than fifteen years on the international scene, Slavko Vincic concludes a career rich in important meetings and landmark decisions. His withdrawal leaves a void among experienced European referees, but he leaves with the image of a referee who knew how to hold his own to the highest step of world football.

The rest

After his retirement, it is likely that Slavko Vincic will share his expertise as an analyst or consultant in the field of football. Football governing bodies, including FIFA, could also call on his experience to train new referees, especially ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Fans and players will remember him not only for his decisions on the field, but also for his integrity and professionalism.

Frequently asked questions

What led Slavko Vincic to end his refereeing career?

Slavko Vincic has decided to end his refereeing career after officiating the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, choosing to leave on this final big stage.

Who confirmed Slavko Vincic's retirement?

Slavko Vincic's decision to end his career was announced in an official statement.

Why did Slavko Vincic choose to retire now?

Vincic chose to retire after officiating in the final of

the World Cup, a peak of his career, and wanted to leave on a high note.

What changes does Slavko Vincic's retirement mean for football?

The retirement of Slavko Vincic leaves a void in the international refereeing body, being an experienced referee having officiated at many major matches.

What is Slavko Vincic's record as a referee?

During his career, Slavko Vincic officiated 513 matches, handed out 2,135 yellow cards, 70 second yellow cards, 47 direct red cards and awarded 120 penalties.

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