FIFA has finalized the officiating crew for the tournament’s opening game, placing one of South America’s most experienced referees in charge.
Who is Wilton Sampaio, referee for Mexico vs South Africa in World Cup 2026 opener?
The final preparations for the 2026 World Cup are falling into place. FIFA on Tuesday announced the referee assignments for games scheduled on June 11 and 12, including the tournament opener between Mexico and South Africa.The governing body selected Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio to take charge of the opening match.
Third World Cup for Sampaio
Sampaio will be responsible for keeping order Thursday afternoon at Mexico City’s iconic stadium. The Brazilian made his professional refereeing debut in Brazil’s top flight in 2009 and quickly established himself as one of the country’s most highly regarded officials. By 2012, he had been recognized among the best referees in the Brasileirão, and a year later he earned his FIFA badge.
Since then, Sampaio has built an extensive international résumé. He has become a regular presence in both the Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana, while also working at the 2018 FIFA Club World Cup. At the international level, he has officiated Copa América matches, World Cup qualifiers, and games at both the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups.
His experience makes him one of the most decorated officials available to FIFA and CONMEBOL heading into the tournament.
The match officials for @FIFAWorldCup matches 1, 2, 3 and 4 have been appointed. 🤝
— FIFA (@FIFAcom) June 8, 2026
Referee crew for Mexico vs. South Africa
Two fellow Brazilians will join Sampaio for the World Cup opener. Bruno Pires and Bruno Boschilia will serve as assistant referees on the sidelines throughout the game, while Paraguay’s Juan Gabriel Benítez has been appointed fourth official.
The video review team will be led by Colombia’s Nicolás Gallo as Video Assistant Referee (VAR), assisted by fellow Colombian Juan Lara. French official Jérôme Brisard will serve as Support VAR for the match.
Related stories
Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.
Complete your personal details to comment