Sllovenian referee Slavko Vinčić, appointed to officiate the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, said he was trembling when he heard the news.

Speaking about his feelings upon learning he would officiate the FIFA World Cup final, Vinčić said: "First, shock. Then, happiness. I was trembling all over. Officiating the FIFA World Cup final is an unparalleled honor. This is a dream every young referee has at the beginning of their career. I am very proud of myself and my team."

"Yes, I still feel... there are too many thoughts in my head right now."

"First, it's hard to put everything into words, but I am extremely proud to represent my home country Slovenia in this highest-standard, largest sporting event in the world. So, yes, I am very proud. My team is also very proud, and we will do our best."

"Refereeing is entirely about teamwork. So, without them, without Tomaž and Andraž (assistant referees), it would not be possible. I am truly happy to have had them by my side throughout my career, throughout our careers. We are true old friends, a great team, and I thank them."

"And of course, my family. I haven't replied to them yet because it's late night in Europe, but they were the first people I thought of. They have also made many sacrifices throughout my career. I am proud of what I have achieved today. Thanks to them too."

Pierluigi Collina, chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee, said: "What you just saw is one of the most emotional moments in the game – when we announce the referees appointed to officiate the two matches (the third-place playoff and the final). Of course, it's very emotional for the referees, and it's just as emotional for me."

"This is my third time doing this at a FIFA World Cup. Even so, I still get goosebumps every time I do it. Because we have been here a long time, and it has been a long journey. To reach the end after 102 matches and select the officials for the last two matches..."

"It is an honor to select the referees who will represent the 'FIFA First Team' in these two matches. It is an honor to serve as the chairman of the Referees Committee and FIFA's chief refereeing officer."

"It's not easy to explain why we choose a particular referee or refereeing team for the final. It's a long process. Like a jigsaw puzzle, there are many pieces that must come together to form the complete picture of 'the final referee'."

"This is a process that runs throughout the entire competition. Of course, performance is the most important. In addition to that, there are the matches he previously officiated, and the fact that his national team is not participating in the event. But ultimately, performance is the most crucial."

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