Tears in New York: Slavko Vincic’s surprise World Cup final call

In a tear‑filled moment in New York, FIFA announced that Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic will officiate the Argentina‑Spain World Cup final, confirming his appointment just hours before the match, on the iconic stage, and sparking an emotional response from the veteran official.

Vincic was not listed among the favorites to take charge, and his selection surprised many observers who had expected a different official.

The announcement left the veteran official, also referred to as Slavtko Vincic, visibly emotional, and a striking photograph captured him breaking down in tears as he learned of his appointment, quickly circulating across media outlets.

Overwhelmed, Vincic celebrated with his colleagues while the entire refereeing group applauded him, acknowledging the significance of the moment, yet the decision also drew criticism from a segment of the Spanish fanbase, recalling his sending‑off of Camavinga with a second yellow in a Champions League clash between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, an incident some Madrid supporters deemed unfair.