FIFA has appointed experienced Salvadoran referee Iván Barton to officiate Tuesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final between France and Spain, with a place in the final at stake.
The world football governing body announced the appointment on Monday, confirming that Barton will take charge of Match 101 at Dallas Stadium.
“The match officials for FIFA World Cup Match 101 have been appointed,” FIFA said.
Barton will be assisted by fellow Salvadoran David Morán as Assistant Referee 1, while Argentina’s Antonio Pupiro has been named Assistant Referee 2.
Sweden’s Glenn Nyberg will serve as the fourth official, with compatriot Mahbod Beigi appointed reserve assistant referee.
The appointment places Barton in charge of one of the tournament’s biggest fixtures as two European football heavyweights battle for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
France are aiming to reach a third consecutive World Cup final after lifting the trophy in 2018 and finishing runners-up in 2022. Didier Deschamps’ side have enjoyed an impressive campaign and will rely on captain Kylian Mbappé to lead their challenge.
Spain, meanwhile, have emerged as one of the tournament’s standout teams, combining their trademark possession-based football with a youthful squad led by Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal. La Roja are chasing their second FIFA World Cup title, having won the competition for the first time in 2010.
The semi-final also renews one of European football’s fiercest rivalries. France defeated Spain 3-1 in their only previous FIFA World Cup meeting during the Round of 16 at Germany 2006, while Spain claimed a 2-1 victory when the two sides met in the UEFA Euro 2024 semi-final.
Kick-off is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. local time (Dallas) on Tuesday, with the winners advancing to Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final and the losers moving into the third-place playoff.
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