Szymon Marciniak’s chances of refereeing the 2026 World Cup final have decreased significantly following Argentina’s 2-1 semifinal victory over England. According to Mario van der Ende, a referee for the 1994 and 1998 World Cup finals, FIFA may avoid appointing Marciniak to the final to prevent protests stemming from his previous involvement in Argentina’s 2022 victory and specific officiating decisions during the current tournament.
Why Argentina’s Final Berth Impacts Szymon Marciniak
The path to the final now features Argentina and Spain. Mario van der Ende told Przegląd Sportowy Onet that Marciniak is unlikely to be assigned any further Argentina matches because he officiated their winning final four years ago.
Van der Ende suggests that the optics of a repeat appointment would trigger widespread protests.
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The Controversy Surrounding Leo Messi and the Algeria Match
Beyond the 2022 final, specific incidents in the 2026 group stage have clouded Marciniak’s standing. Van der Ende noted that Marciniak “spared” Leo Messi during a match against Algeria by not calling a foul following an attack by the Argentine star.
While van der Ende clarified that he believes Marciniak generally officiated “excellently,” he warned that this specific non-call has left the referee open to being questioned. The decision sparked significant outrage at the time and remains a point of contention as Argentina advances toward the trophy.
Comparison of Marciniak’s 2026 Tournament Performance
| Match/Phase | Outcome/Reception | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Argentina vs. Algeria | Controversial | No foul called on Leo Messi |
| Iran vs. Egypt | Very Successful | Handled a “hot” atmosphere well |
FIFA’s Selection Dilemma for the Final
After his successful handling of the Iran-Egypt clash, he has not led another match in the tournament.
The decision now rests with FIFA officials.
Pro Tip: When tracking referee appointments for major finals, look at the “neutrality” criteria.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who will referee the 2026 World Cup final?
FIFA has not yet announced the official. The decision will be made in the coming days based on referee performance and neutrality.
Why is Szymon Marciniak’s appointment questioned?
According to Mario van der Ende, the combination of Marciniak refereeing Argentina’s 2022 win and his decision not to call a foul on Leo Messi against Algeria makes him a target for protests.
Which teams are playing in the 2026 final?
Argentina and Spain have both secured their places in the final.
What do you think? Should FIFA prioritize a referee’s experience or the perception of neutrality? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest World Cup updates.
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