Slavko Vincic, Referee of 2026 World Cup Final, Retires Amidst Past Scandal

Slavko Vincic, the Slovenian referee who officiated the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, has announced his retirement from professional activity at the age of 46. His career culminated in him being recognized as one of the greatest referees in history.

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As the first Slovenian referee, the native of Maribor officiated the great final of the 2026 World Cup between Spain and Argentina in East Rutherford, confirming his status as one of the best referees in history.

The NZS (Football Association of Slovenia) highlighted his achievement, stating, "As the first Slovenian referee, the native of Maribor officiated the great final of the 2026 World Cup between Spain and Argentina in East Rutherford, confirming his status as one of the best referees in history." To cap off his farewell season, the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) declared him the best referee of the World Cup, and he received the prestigious Giulio Campanati Award in Italy.

Vincic's career was not without controversy. In 2020, he was detained during a police operation in a cabin in Bijeljina, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The operation targeted a suspected network involved in prostitution, arms trafficking, and drugs, with 25 other individuals and nine women present. Vincic maintained his innocence, stating he was invited for lunch and was unaware of any illegal activities.

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I have nothing to do with that. I accepted an invitation for lunch, which turned out to be my biggest mistake. I regret it.

After providing a statement, Vincic was released and subsequently cleared of any involvement in the investigated crimes. The Football Federation of Slovenia supported his version, describing the incident as being "in the wrong place at the wrong time." The investigation found no evidence linking him to the criminal organization, allowing him to continue his professional career until his retirement.

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I was sitting at a table with my company, suddenly the police arrived and what happened happened.

During the 2026 World Cup final, Lionel Messi was noted to have made repeated claims to the referee. The police operation in Bosnia reportedly found 14 packages of cocaine, ten firearms, three bulletproof vests, and over 10,000 euros in cash. Despite the significant findings, authorities did not press charges against Vincic.

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The referee had been in the wrong place at the wrong time.