Slavko Vinčić, the Slovenian referee who officiated the 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, was at the center of a scandal in 2020. The match, which ended with a 1-0 victory for Spain in extra time, was not the only tense moment for the referee. Vinčić was detained during a raid in Bosnia and Herzegovina, linked to a prostitution, arms trafficking, and drug ring. Although he was released and cleared of charges, the episode marked his career. ## What happened to Slavko Vinčić? In 2020, Vinčić was detained in a cabin in Bijeljina along with 25 other people. The police seized cocaine, weapons, and cash. The referee claimed he was only there by invitation and was unaware of the illegal activities. The Slovenian Football Federation supported him, stating he was "in the wrong place at the wrong time". ## How did this affect his career? Despite the scandal, Vinčić continued refereeing and was chosen to officiate the 2026 World Cup final. Argentina enters the match with a five-game winning streak, including a 2-1 victory over England on July 15. The referee, for his part, left the episode behind and focused on his work on the field. ## What was found in the raid? During the operation, the police arrested Tijana Maksimovic, accused of running a prostitution ring. They also seized 14 packages of cocaine, ten firearms, and over 10,000 euros. Vinčić denied any connection to the illegal activities and was exonerated. Argentina, with its unbeaten streak, remains a formidable opponent in the 2026 World Cup.