the referee who will have the honor of the opening whistle

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June 9, 2026June 9, 2026By Mario Vásquez
the referee who will have the honor of the opening whistle

A few hours before the ball starts rolling in the 2026 World Cup, Fifa defined one of the protagonists who will have the responsibility of giving the first whistle of the tournament.

Brazilian Wilton Sampaio was appointed to dispense justice in the opening match between Mexico and South Africa, a duel that will mark the beginning of a new edition of the greatest football festival.

Sampaio is considered one of the most experienced referees in South America and has more than 15 years of professional experience. His history in arbitration began when he was barely 15 years old and in 2000 he entered the Brasilia Arbitration School. Nine years later he debuted in the Brasileirao and in 2013 he obtained the Fifa medal, making his way onto the most important stages of international football.

Since then, the Brazilian judge has directed matches in the Copa Libertadores, Copa Sudamericana, World Cup qualifiers and tournaments organized by Fifa. His experience was reflected at the 2022 Qatar World Cup, where he was one of the most active referees by participating in four meetings.

For a match of such magnitude, the Fifa also opted for a strong Brazilian presence in the refereeing team. Sampaio will be accompanied by his compatriots Bruno Pires and Bruno Boschilia as assistants, forming an entirely Brazilian main shortlist for the meeting that will open the World Cup 2026.

Throughout his career, Sampaio has been characterized by a firm and disciplinary style. In 596 official matches he has shown 2,974 yellow cards, an average of close to five per match. This rigor has earned him praise and criticism, including questions from figures such as Lionel Messi and Marcelo Gallardo, although he is also recognized for allowing the continuity of the game and applying the law of advantage whenever the actions allow it.

The refereeing team will be completed with Paraguayan Juan Gabriel Benítez as fourth officerwhile in the VAR the Colombian will be Nicholas Gallothe Chilean Juan Lara and the Frenchman Jérôme Brisard.

Sampaio already knows what it is to lead Mexico. In the Copa América Centenario he was in charge of the Aztec victory 2-0 over Jamaica. Most recently, he led the 1-1 draw between Rayados de Monterrey and Inter Milan in the Club World Cup.

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