Christian Garay named referee for Canada vs Qatar — a World Cup debut 12 years in the making

Christian Garay will referee Canada’s World Cup 2026 group-stage clash against Qatar, marking the first time a Chilean official has taken charge of a World Cup match in 12 years — since compatriot Enrique Osses officiated at Brazil 2014.

Garay arrives at the tournament with a substantial résumé, having refereed high-profile fixtures in the Copa America, the Copa Libertadores and World Cup qualifying. Despite that experience, his career has not been without controversy. Argentine referee Javier Castrilli publicly called for Garay’s removal from Chilean Liga de Primera matches in 2025, following accusations from Everton Viña del Mar’s manager that he had made unfair decisions against the club. Earlier this year, Garay also drew criticism for retracting a penalty after VAR intervention in a Saudi Pro League match between Al Fateh and Al Hilal.

None of that has prevented his selection for the 2026 tournament, and tonight’s fixture will serve as his World Cup debut.

Garay will be supported by an almost entirely Chilean officiating team. José Retamal and Miguel Rocha serve as his assistants on the touchlines, while Juan Lara takes the Video Assistant Referee role. Kevin Ortega of Peru is the fourth official, and fellow Peruvian Michael Orue is the reserve assistant referee.

Canada enter the match as heavy favourites against co-host nation Qatar, with three points potentially enough to secure their passage out of the group stage. The co-hosts are chasing what would be their first ever World Cup victory.

The tournament has already seen four red cards through the early fixtures, three of them shown during the opening game between Mexico and South Africa. Bosnia and Herzegovina defender Tarik Muharemović has since been dismissed in his side’s match against Switzerland.