Cristián Garay will return to action in the North American World Cup

Chilean referee Cristián Garay is set to officiate in another FIFA World Cup 2026 match, this time as the fourth official for the upcoming game between the Czech Republic and Mexico. The match is scheduled for Wednesday, June 24th, at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, marking the final group stage game for Group A.

Garay will be supported by another Chilean official, José Retamal, who has been appointed as the reserve assistant referee. Retamal will be available to step in should any issues arise with the primary officiating team. The match itself will be overseen by Argentinian referee Yael Falcón Pérez, assisted by his compatriots Maximiliano Del Yesso and Facundo Rodríguez.

This appointment adds to Garay's World Cup experience, as he previously served as a head referee in the tournament. He officiated Canada's commanding 6-0 victory over Qatar. During that match, Garay managed several significant incidents, including the use of VAR to overturn a penalty decision for an infraction outside the box, two red cards issued to the Qatari team, and a serious injury to Canadian player Ismaël Koné.