Raff Tindale

FIFA has barred English referees Michael Oliver and Anthony Taylor from officiating Argentina’s matches at the 2026 World Cup due to ongoing political sensitivity surrounding the 1982 Falklands War. Standard restrictions preventing referees from overseeing games involving their own nation or fixtures affecting their team’s progression also apply. FIFA considers geopolitical factors when appointing officials, with decisions made on a case‑by‑case basis. As the tournament advances, scrutiny of referee assignments is expected to intensify, but FIFA has reaffirmed that neither Oliver nor Taylor will handle any match involving Argentina.