CORNERFLICK
FIFA has confirmed Wilton Pereira Sampaio as the referee for the opening match of the 2026 World Cup.
The 44-year-old Brazilian will oversee Mexico's meeting with South Africa, with fellow Brazilians Bruno Pires and Bruno Boschilia appointed as assistants. That gives FIFA a fully Brazilian team for the tournament's first game.
Sampaio is one of South America's most experienced referees and has previously worked at major international competitions. The 2026 finals will be his third World Cup, underlining his long-standing role at the top level.
The opening match will launch the biggest event in world football and draw global attention as the tournament gets under way.