Referee of Israel-Italy 5:4 Match Arrested in 2020 with Weapons and Cocaine in Bosnia

Slavko Vinčić, the referee who officiated Israel's 5:4 victory over Italy and other major international football matches, was involved in a controversial incident in May 2020. Vinčić was arrested in Bosnia and Herzegovina during a police raid in the city of Bihać, where authorities seized cocaine, firearms, and cash. The raid targeted a criminal network allegedly led by Tijana Maksimović, who later pleaded guilty to charges related to prostitution and was offered a one-year prison sentence.

Vinčić claimed he was invited to what he thought was a business lunch and was unaware of the illegal activities. He was detained as a witness but was never charged or suspected of criminal involvement. The Bosnian police arrested nine women and 26 men during the operation, confiscating four packages of cocaine, ten guns, three bulletproof vests, and over 10,000 euros in cash.

Slovenian Football Referees Association president Vlado Šajn defended Vinčić, stating that investigations showed no suspicion against him and described the situation as unfortunate circumstances. Despite the incident, Vinčić continued his career as a top international referee, officiating high-profile matches including the 2024 UEFA Champions League final, the Europa League final, and several World Cup games in 2022.

Vinčić's involvement in the 2020 arrest has resurfaced amid discussions of his role in major football events, but no formal charges or disciplinary actions have been taken against him. He maintains that he was an unintended participant and has returned to Slovenia following the incident.