Referee Slavko Vincic: Messi's behavior exemplary in 2026 World Cup final, no regrets over Enzo red card

Published Jul 30, 05:38 PM UTC

Slavko Vincic, the Slovenian referee who officiated the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina (1-0 a.e.t.) at MetLife Stadium, has praised Lionel Messi's exemplary behavior during the match. In an interview with Slovenian media Sport, Vincic, who retired at age 46 after the final, said he does not regret sending off Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez. He also noted that while Messi behaved well, some teammates like Leandro Paredes did not, with FIFA opening a disciplinary investigation into Paredes' violent acts after the match. Vincic stated he kept a private conversation with Messi to himself but confirmed the star's conduct was exemplary.

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