FIFA has appointed American referee Ismail Elfath to officiate Wednesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina in Atlanta.
Elfath, who was born in Morocco before moving to the United States, has already handled three matches at the tournament and served as the fourth official during the 2022 World Cup final between Argentina and France in Qatar.
The experienced official most recently took charge of Norway’s Round of 16 victory over Brazil, a match that featured two controversial penalty incidents. He initially waved away a challenge by Kristoffer Ajer on Matheus Cunha before VAR awarded Brazil a penalty, which Bruno Guimaraes failed to convert.
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Elfath later awarded Brazil another spot-kick in stoppage time for Leo Ostigard’s challenge on Casemiro, with Neymar scoring from the spot.
He also refereed the Netherlands’ 2-2 draw with Japan in the group stage and Spain’s 1-0 victory over Uruguay, where he sent off Uruguay’s Agustin Canobbio for serious foul play.
Elfath is no stranger to Argentina captain Lionel Messi, having officiated four of the forward’s matches with Inter Miami, all of which ended in victories for the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
FIFA also confirmed that Corey Parker and Kyle Atkins, both from the United States, will serve as assistant referees.
Italy’s Maurizio Mariani has been named fourth official, while compatriot Daniele Bindoni will be the reserve assistant referee.
The appointment comes ahead of one of the tournament’s most anticipated fixtures, with England aiming to reach the World Cup final and defending champions Argentina seeking another appearance in the title match.
