The appointment makes Vinčić the first Slovenian referee to officiate a FIFA World Cup final and the 23rd official in history to referee the tournament's showpiece match.

The 46-year-old referee from Maribor said the appointment was the result of years of teamwork, and he thanked his assistant referees and his family for their continued support.

Vinčić revealed that he was informed of his appointment by Pierluigi Collina, Chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee, adding that the news came as a surprise.

The World Cup final will see Argentina attempt to defend its title against Spain in one of the tournament's most anticipated matches.