Ismael Elfath named referee for Uruguay vs Spain Group H decider at World Cup 2026

Ismael Elfath, a Morocco-born American referee who officiates in Major League Soccer, has been appointed to take charge of the Uruguay vs Spain Group H decider at World Cup 2026.

The match carries significant stakes: a Uruguay victory in Mexico would hand them top spot in Group H and set up a round of 32 tie in California — crucially allowing them to sidestep world champions Argentina in the process. Spain, meanwhile, will be determined to protect their standing in the group.

Elfath, 44, has been on FIFA’s international list since 2016 and has been a fixture in CONCACAF competition for over a decade, having refereed in MLS since 2012. His first World Cup came in Qatar in 2022, where he handled two group-stage matches and one round of 16 tie, and was named fourth official for the final.

At World Cup 2026, Elfath’s opening assignment was the Group F draw between the Netherlands and Japan, during which he issued three cautions — all to Dutch players — while leaving the Samurai Blue untouched. Across the 2026 MLS season prior to the World Cup break, he officiated 10 matches, showing 41 yellow cards, issuing three red cards, and awarding three penalties.

Elfath will be assisted by fellow Americans Corey Parker and Kyle Atkins, with Costa Rica’s Juan Gabriel Calderon serving as fourth official.

Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay side overtaking Spain in the group would represent a notable upset, though both nations carry pedigree at the highest level — each having won a FIFA World Cup and continental honours. With qualification from Group H still open to multiple outcomes, the appointment of an experienced international official reflects the weight of the occasion.