Who is Danny Makkelie, the referee for France vs Sweden? Round of 32, World Cup 2026

The 2026 World Cup continues today as one of the favorites for the tournament goes up against a familiar continental foe. Didier Deschamps’ France begin their knockout campaign against fellow Europeans Sweden at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, and FIFA has selected a referee with extensive international experience for a match that promises intensity from the opening whistle: Danny Makkelie.

Meet police referee Danny Makkelie

Born in Willemstad, Curaçao, but representing the Netherlands, Makkelie has established himself as one of the most respected officials in European soccer over the past decade. At 43 years old, he arrived at the World Cup backed by a career built on the sport’s most demanding stages, having carried his FIFA badge since 2011.

He opened this tournament in charge of the USMNT’s first game against Paraguay.

The Dutch official is known not only for his commanding presence in high-profile matches but also for his career off the pitch, working as a police inspector in Rotterdam. That unique combination of authority and conflict resolution has earned him the trust of both UEFA and FIFA for the world’s most high-stakes fixtures.

For the clash between the French and Swedes, Makkelie will be accompanied by fellow Dutch assistants Hessel Steegstra and Jan de Vries, while American referee Tori Penso serves as fourth official and Brooke Mayo is the reserve assistant referee.

Makkelie: elite resume on the world stage

Throughout his career, Makkelie has refereed at the absolute highest levels of the sport, including the UEFA Champions League, the UEFA European Championship, and the FIFA World Cup. He is also a mainstay in the UEFA Elite Category, a distinction reserved strictly for the highest-rated referees in European soccer.

His extensive experience in high-pressure environments will be tested once again when these nations kick off their first 2026 World Cup knockout game. A place in the last 16 awaits the victor, while Makkelie will be eyeing more big engagements in the coming weeks.

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