Ivan Barton to Referee France vs Spain in FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi-Final | Full Match Officials List
Ivan Barton Named Referee for France vs Spain at 2026 World Cup Semi-Final
FIFA has appointed El Salvador’s Ivan Barton to referee the France versus Spain semi-final at the 2026 World Cup. The match kicks off at 3:00 p.m. EDT on July 14 at Dallas Stadium in Texas. Barton will work alongside a familiar crew that has already built strong chemistry during the tournament.
The full officiating team includes assistant referee one David Moran from El Salvador, assistant referee two Antonio Pupiro from Nicaragua, fourth official Glenn Nyberg from Sweden, and reserve assistant referee Mahbod Beigi from Sweden. This group steps into one of the biggest games of the summer with plenty of experience already under their belts.
Why This Crew Earned the Call
Barton has handled pressure well throughout the 2026 tournament. He worked group stage matches and a round-of-16 fixture before this assignment. FIFA clearly values his calm presence and clear communication on the field. Pairing him again with Moran and Pupiro shows trust in how the trio works together.
The Swedish officials add experienced backup. Nyberg and Beigi bring their own strong resumes from European competitions. Together, the five officials form a balanced unit for a match that carries massive weight for both nations.
France and Spain Bring Heavy History to Dallas
France and Spain have each fought through tough paths to reach this stage. Both sides feature world-class talent and deep tactical setups. The winner moves on to the final, where England or Argentina likely waits. Every call in Dallas will carry extra scrutiny because the stakes sit so high.
Dallas Stadium will roar with a split crowd. French supporters will pack sections in blue, white, and red. Spanish fans will wave their red and yellow flags just as loud. The Texas heat and the electric atmosphere figure to test everyone on the field, including the officials who must stay sharp for the full 90 minutes and beyond.
The match officials for @FIFAWorldCup match 101 have been appointed. 🤝
— FIFA (@FIFAcom) July 12, 2026
A Proud Moment for Central American Officiating
Barton’s appointment carries special meaning back in El Salvador. Central American referees rarely reach this level of the World Cup. Seeing a Salvadoran in the middle and a Nicaraguan on the line for a semi-final gives fans across the region something to celebrate. Their journey reflects years of hard work and steady improvement on the international stage.
You could feel the pride ripple through Salvadoran football circles the moment the news landed. For players and young referees back home, it serves as proof that consistent performances open doors at the highest level.
What to Watch For on July 14
France and Spain both like to control games with possession and quick transitions. Barton and his assistants will need sharp positioning to catch offside traps and quick breaks. The fourth official and reserve will stay ready to step in if any issues arise with the main crew.
Expect tight calls around the box and plenty of physical battles in midfield. The officials have shown they can manage those moments without letting the game spiral. Their earlier work in the tournament gives them a solid foundation heading into this one.
The 2026 World Cup has already delivered drama and standout moments. This semi-final appointment adds another layer of interest as the tournament heads toward its final weekend. Barton and his crew now carry the responsibility of keeping one of the year’s biggest matches fair and flowing.
France and Spain fans around the world will tune in early. The eyes of the soccer community will stay locked on every decision in Dallas. When the final whistle blows, one team will celebrate a place in the final while the officials can reflect on a job handled under the brightest lights.
