Referee Slavko Vinčić Faces Past Controversy Amid 2026 World Cup Spotlight

Slavko Vinčić, the Slovenian referee who officiated Israel's 5-4 victory over Italy and other high-profile matches, was involved in a controversial incident in May 2020. He was arrested in Bosnia and Herzegovina during a police raid in the city of Bihać, where authorities uncovered a criminal operation involving drugs, weapons, and a prostitution ring led by Tijana Maksimović. Vinčić was present at what he believed was a business lunch but was caught up in the police operation. Although he was detained and questioned as a witness, he was never charged with any criminal activity.

The Bosnian police arrested 15 people in total, including nine women and 26 men, and seized four packages of cocaine, ten firearms, three bulletproof vests, and over 10,000 euros in cash. Maksimović later admitted guilt and was offered a one-year prison sentence. Vinčić has consistently denied any involvement, stating in a Slovenian media interview that he was at the wrong place at the wrong time and had no connection to the criminal group or his business partners.

Vlado Šajn, president of the Slovenian Football Referees Association, defended Vinčić, emphasizing that no formal charges were filed against him and that he was merely an unintended participant in the incident. Despite the controversy, Vinčić continued his career as a top international referee, officiating major matches such as the 2024 UEFA Champions League final, the 5-4 Israel-Italy match, the Europa League final, and several games in the current 2026 World Cup, including Brazil vs. Morocco, Jordan vs. Algeria, and Mexico vs. Ecuador.

This past episode has resurfaced amid the 2026 World Cup, drawing attention to Vinčić's background but has not impeded his role in international football officiating.