Honduran Referee Saíd Martínez Debuts as Central Referee in World Cup 2026

Honduran referee Héctor Saíd Martínez Sorto achieved a significant milestone on June 13, 2026, becoming the first central referee from his country to officiate a FIFA World Cup match. Martínez took charge of the Group B game between Qatar and Switzerland, held at the Levi’s Stadium.

During the match, Martínez awarded a penalty to Switzerland in the 17th minute after a VAR review. The penalty was called for a foul by Qatari goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada on a Swiss attacker. Breel Embolo converted the penalty, opening the scoring for Switzerland.

Martínez, 34, from Tocoa, Colón, began his refereeing career in the Honduran National League in 2013 and earned his FIFA badge in 2017. He has previously officiated in tournaments like the Gold Cup and the CONCACAF Nations League. In the 2022 World Cup, he served as an assistant referee for nine matches. His promotion to central referee for the 2026 tournament marks a notable achievement for Honduran and Central American officiating. His continued presence in the tournament depends on FIFA's evaluations.

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It is the opportunity of his life (at the 2026 World Cup).