The politics behind World Cup referee appointments

With the World Cup 2026 reaching its final stages, it’s not just the selection and performances of players that are under the spotlight. The appointment of referees has been a hot topic of conversation, particularly after an all-Argentine official line-up was announced for France’s 2-0 win against Morocco on Thursday evening. Many fans online questioned that selection, given the likelihood of favourites France coming up against defending champions Argentina in the final in a repeat o