Cocaine, guns and a 'sex party': The rocky past of World Cup final referee Slavko Vincic

Slavko Vincic, the Slovenian referee chosen to officiate the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, is no stranger to controversy. His appointment has reignited scrutiny over an incident years ago when he was wrongly arrested at a sex party involving cocaine and guns.

The 45-year-old official, who broke down in tears upon learning of his final assignment, now carries a complicated reputation into the biggest match of his career.

The sex party arrest that almost derailed his career

In 2015, Vincic was detained by Slovenian police during a raid on a private party. Officers found cocaine and firearms at the location. Vincic was arrested on the spot, but was later released without charges after it became clear he was a guest, not a participant in any illegal activity.

The incident did not end his refereeing career, but it left a mark. For years, his name was whispered alongside questions about judgment and association. FIFA and UEFA quietly backed him, but the memory of that raid has never fully faded.

Real Madrid backlash and Mourinho's praise

Vincic is no stranger to high-pressure matches, but his style has drawn sharp criticism from some of football's biggest clubs. Real Madrid publicly questioned his performance after a Champions League tie, accusing him of biased decisions. The Spanish giants' media machine ran segments dissecting his calls.

Jose Mourinho, on the other hand, has been a vocal supporter. The Portuguese manager praised Vincic's composure and fairness after a tense Europa League match. "He is one of the few referees who understands the game," Mourinho said at the time. That endorsement carries weight in European football circles.

From tears to the final whistle

When FIFA announced his selection for the 2026 final, Vincic was seen weeping openly. The emotional response surprised many. For a man whose career nearly ended in a police station, the moment was overwhelming.

He will walk out onto the pitch in the final with the weight of that past. Spain and Argentina fans are already watching closely. Social media is ablaze with memes and debates about his suitability.

What happens next

The World Cup final will be the most watched match of Vincic's life. Every whistle, every card, every decision will be dissected. His past will be referenced, his tears remembered. For now, he has the job. Whether he keeps control of the game remains to be seen.