FIFA has named Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton to officiate the first semi-final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup between France and Spain.
The highly anticipated clash will take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with both European heavyweights battling for a place in Sunday’s World Cup final.
The winner will progress to the title decider, while the defeated side will face the loser of the second semi-final between England and Argentina in Saturday’s third-place playoff in Miami.
Barton, 35, has emerged as one of FIFA’s trusted officials and will take charge of his seventh match at the ongoing tournament, underlining the confidence the world football governing body has in his abilities.
The Salvadoran referee drew widespread attention earlier in the competition after sending off Paraguay captain Miguel Almirón during his country’s match against Turkey.
Almirón was shown a red card after covering his mouth while speaking to Turkish defender Mert Müldür, with Barton deeming the incident worthy of dismissal under FIFA’s disciplinary guidelines.
Widely regarded as one of the leading referees in the CONCACAF region, Barton has built an impressive résumé in recent years.
He has officiated several CONCACAF Champions Cup finals and has also handled matches at major international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and the Olympic Games.
According to French outlet L’Equipe, Wednesday’s encounter will mark the first time Barton has officiated a match involving either France or Spain, adding another milestone to his growing international career.
France, runners-up at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, are seeking a return to the final, while reigning European champions Spain are aiming to continue their impressive run and lift a second major trophy in as many years.
The encounter is expected to be one of the standout fixtures of the tournament, with a place in the World Cup final at stake.
