Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić has officially announced his retirement from professional officiating, bringing an end to one of the most accomplished refereeing careers in modern football.

The Football Association of Slovenia (NZS) confirmed the news on July 27, one week after Vinčić took charge of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final in the United States. “One week after the World Cup final in the United States, Slavko Vinčić officially concludes his remarkable refereeing career at the highest level of world football,” the NZS said in an official statement.

According to the Slovenian Football Association, being selected to referee the 2026 FIFA World Cup final solidified Vinčić’s status as one of the greatest referees in football history. To cap off his final season, the International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) named him Best Referee of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, recognizing his clear, decisive, and authoritative management throughout the tournament. Vinčić also received the prestigious Giulio Campanati Award in Italy for his outstanding performances during the 2026 World Cup.

A FIFA-listed referee since 2010, Vinčić has officiated many of Europe’s biggest matches. Among the highlights of his career are:

  • 2022 UEFA Europa League Final between Eintracht Frankfurt and Rangers.
  • 2024 UEFA Champions League Final, where Real Madrid defeated Borussia Dortmund.
  • 2026 FIFA World Cup Final, the pinnacle of his officiating career.

In 2024, the IFFHS also ranked him as the second-best referee in the world, further reinforcing his reputation among football’s elite officials.

Following the 2026 World Cup final, Vinčić officially ends an international refereeing career spanning more than 15 years. His consistency, composure under pressure, and ability to manage high-stakes matches earned him widespread respect from players, coaches, and football organizations worldwide. By retiring shortly after officiating football’s biggest match, Vinčić closes his career on the highest possible stage.

Sources: Znews