Venezuelan referee Jesus Valenzuela has been confirmed as the match official for the 2026 FIFA World Cup third and fourth place play-off between France and England, to be held in Miami.

A match neither side wants

Both France and England entered the semi-finals as genuine contenders for the title, but neither made it through. France fell to Spain, while England — who led Argentina 1-0 — were ultimately beaten by the eventual finalists.

The mood in both camps reflects the frustration of reaching a game that carries little prestige. France manager Didier Deschamps, who will step down after this World Cup, was blunt: "The best for France and England would be for this match not to exist." England boss Thomas Tuchel echoed the sentiment, saying: "None of our players and none of the French players want to play this match."

Tuchel's own position is also under scrutiny, with question marks hanging over his future following the manner of England's semi-final exit.

Valenzuela's record and experience

Valenzuela, 42, brings considerable international pedigree to the assignment. At this World Cup alone, he has taken charge of three group-stage matches — including Australia's win over Turkiye, Bosnia and Herzegovina's victory over Qatar, and the Round of 16 tie between Norway and Ivory Coast.

He also officiated at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, overseeing the goalless draw between England and United States, as well as France's 3-1 dismantling of Poland.

Beyond the World Cup, Valenzuela has refereed three Copa America tournaments, the Olympics, and the FIFA Club World Cup on two occasions — a résumé that reflects his standing at the top of the global refereeing pyramid.

However, his reputation carries an edge. Across 387 professional matches, Valenzuela has issued 1,909 yellow cards and handed out 115 red cards — numbers that underline a no-nonsense approach to discipline.

Officials for the match

Valenzuela will be joined on the touchlines by fellow Venezuelans Jorge Urrego and Tulio Moreno as his assistant referees. Morocco's Jalal Jayed will serve as the fourth official, with compatriot Zakaria Brinsi taking the reserve assistant role.

This third-place play-off will be the final World Cup appearance for both France and England in 2026. The tournament concludes with the final between Spain and Argentina.