Iranian-Born Referee Alireza Faghani Makes History With Fourth Consecutive World Cup Appearance

FIFA taps Alireza Faghani for France vs Senegal at 2026 World Cup, marking historic fourth tournament

Alireza Faghani becomes first referee to officiate four World Cups, assigned to France vs Senegal at the 2026 tournament. His VAR expertise is critical for the expanded 48-team tournament where technology-driven officiating is central.