The referee for the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening match has been confirmed: Brazilian official Wilton Sampaio will take charge of Mexico's clash against South Africa at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

Sampaio brings considerable experience to one of the most prestigious appointments in football. The 44-year-old has officiated more than 250 matches across club and international competition, and was on the field for England's round-of-eight exit against France at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

A career defined by high-stakes fixtures

Sampaio's involvement in the sport stretches back to the earliest days of Video Assistant Referee technology — he was a member of FIFA's inaugural VAR team, introduced at the 2018 tournament in Russia.

His handling of England's 2-1 defeat to France at Qatar 2022, however, attracted fierce scrutiny. Critics argued he failed to award fouls for French challenges on Bukayo Saka and Mason Mount, while a penalty appeal involving Harry Kane went unaddressed.

England defender Harry Maguire publicly criticised Sampaio's performance after the final whistle, telling BBC Sport: