Wilton Sampaio assigned as referee for Mexico's 2026 World Cup debut

Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio, 44, will take charge of the Mexican national team's debut match against South Africa in the 2026 World Cup. This marks his second World Cup assignment involving Mexico, having previously officiated their 2016 Copa América group stage match against Jamaica, which Mexico won 2-0.

Sampaio, a FIFA referee since 2013, gained experience in four matches during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, including group stage and knockout games. His officiating style shows a contrast between his World Cup average of fewer than four yellow cards per game and a higher average of over five cautions and six red cards in matches within Brazil.

Born in Teresina de Goiás, Brazil, Sampaio is a recognized figure in Brazilian football, with a background in various domestic leagues and international tournaments like the Copa Sudamericana and Copa Libertadores. FIFA and Gianni Infantino have entrusted him with officiating this crucial opening match of the 2026 World Cup.