Of all the decisions FIFA will make during the 2026 World Cup, few will generate as much scrutiny as who holds the whistle. Moroccan-born American referee Ismail Elfath will officiate the semi-final between England and Argentina.
Former Premier League referee Mark Halsey has publicly expressed surprise at the appointment, suggesting that Elfath lacks the kind of experience typically expected for a match of this magnitude.
The referee in question
Elfath, born on March 3, 1982, moved to the United States in 2001 and has been officiating in Major League Soccer since 2012. He earned his FIFA badge in 2016, making him eligible for international assignments.
Elfath served as a fourth official during the 2022 FIFA World Cup final. He also refereed the 2016 U-20 World Cup final.
