- François Letexier of France named the Best Referee in the World for 2024 after an exceptional year of officiating high-profile matches.
- The list recognizes the most consistent and influential referees from across the globe, highlighting their contributions to football’s integrity and fairness.
Referees are the unsung heroes of football, maintaining order and ensuring fair play amidst the intensity of the game.
The International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) recently unveiled the Top 10 Referees of 2024, celebrating those who demonstrated exceptional decision-making, composure, and professionalism throughout the year.
From officiating at marquee international tournaments to leading the charge in high-stakes domestic clashes, these referees have left an indelible mark on the sport.
| Name | Age | Nationality | Key Matches |
|---|---|---|---|
| François Letexier | 35 | France | EURO 2024 Final, Liverpool vs. Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund vs. FC Barcelona |
| Slavko Vinčić | 44 | Slovenia | UEFA Europa League Final, Arsenal vs. Manchester City |
| Daniele Orsato | 48 | Italy | Serie A derby matches, Champions League knockout stages |
| Clément Turpin | 41 | France | Paris Saint-Germain vs. Bayern Munich, French Cup Final |
| Michael Oliver | 39 | England | FA Cup Final, Manchester United vs. Liverpool |
| Felix Zwayer | 42 | Germany | Bundesliga derbies, UEFA Champions League group stages |
| Szymon Marciniak | 43 | Poland | FIFA World Cup qualifiers, UEFA Europa Conference League Final |
| Anthony Taylor | 45 | England | UEFA Super Cup Final, Chelsea vs. Manchester City |
| Raphael Claus | 44 | Brazil | Copa Libertadores Final, Brazil vs. Argentina (World Cup Qualifiers) |
| Wilton Sampaio | 41 | Brazil | FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Copa do Brasil Final |
1. François Letexier (France)
François Letexier, a 35-year-old French referee, was named the best referee in the world for 2024.
His exceptional officiating skills were on display during some of the year’s most important matches, including the EURO 2024 Final between Spain and England, which Spain won 2-1.
Letexier also officiated high-stakes UEFA Champions League matches, such as Liverpool vs. Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund vs. FC Barcelona. His career highlight came during the EURO 2024 Final, where his calm demeanor and command of the game under intense pressure solidified his place as one of the top referees.
Prior to his rise to international prominence, Letexier established a reputation for consistent performances in Ligue 1, becoming one of France’s most trusted officials.
2. Slavko Vinčić (Slovenia)
Slavko Vinčić, a 44-year-old Slovenian referee, had a remarkable 2024, officiating critical matches like the UEFA Europa League Final and domestic showdowns such as Arsenal vs. Manchester City in the Premier League.
His ability to manage these high-pressure games demonstrated his expertise and composure. A career highlight for Vinčić was his stellar performance during the Europa League Final, where his clear and confident decisions ensured a fair and exciting match.
Additionally, he made his mark on the international stage by refereeing several FIFA World Cup qualifiers, further showcasing his capabilities in handling the demands of international football.
3. Daniele Orsato (Italy)
Daniele Orsato, at 48 years old, remains a prominent figure in world football officiating. Known for his excellent leadership, he officiated several intense Serie A derby matches and Champions League knockout games in 2024.
Orsato’s career has been defined by his ability to handle high-stakes fixtures, such as Juventus vs. Inter, where emotions often run high. His ability to maintain fairness and control in these fiery encounters has earned him widespread praise.
In 2020, Orsato was named the Best Referee in the World, a title that underscores his consistency and long-standing excellence in the field.
4. Clément Turpin (France)
Clément Turpin, a 41-year-old French referee, continues to be one of Europe’s most reliable officials. In 2024, he officiated high-profile matches like Paris Saint-Germain vs. Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League and the French Cup Final.
Turpin’s career highlight is his consistent presence in European competitions, where his ability to handle games involving elite-level players has set him apart.
He is widely respected for his precise interpretation of the rules and his calm demeanor, making him a trusted figure in high-stakes tournaments.
5. Michael Oliver (England)
Michael Oliver, aged 39, is recognized as one of the top referees in the Premier League. In 2024, he officiated key matches such as the FA Cup Final and the fierce rivalry between Manchester United and Liverpool.
Known for his fearless and confident decisions, Oliver’s performances in high-intensity Premier League matches have solidified his reputation as England’s leading referee.
He has become a role model for young referees, earning admiration for his ability to maintain control in some of the league’s most heated encounters.
6. Felix Zwayer (Germany)
Felix Zwayer, a 42-year-old German referee, showcased his skills in 2024 during key Bundesliga derbies and UEFA Champions League group stage matches.
Zwayer’s ability to manage the emotions of players and fans in high-pressure Bundesliga matches has made him a standout referee in Germany. His effective communication on the pitch and technical precision have earned him praise from players and coaches alike.
Zwayer is recognized as one of Germany’s top referees, with a career defined by consistent and professional performances.
7. Szymon Marciniak (Poland)
Szymon Marciniak, at 43 years old, continues to shine on the international stage. In 2024, he officiated FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the UEFA Europa Conference League Final, displaying outstanding decision-making in critical moments.
Marciniak’s career reached a peak in 2022 when he officiated the FIFA World Cup Final, an achievement that brought him global recognition.
His calm demeanor and ability to handle the game’s most demanding moments have cemented his legacy as one of the world’s best referees.
8. Anthony Taylor (England)
Anthony Taylor, a 45-year-old English referee, remains one of the most respected officials in world football.
In 2024, Taylor took charge of the UEFA Super Cup Final and key Premier League clashes, including Chelsea vs. Manchester City.
Known for his composed demeanor during dramatic matches, Taylor has become a trusted figure among players and fans. His ability to handle on-pitch controversies with authority and fairness has earned him a stellar reputation in the footballing community.
9. Raphael Claus (Brazil)
Raphael Claus, aged 44, is one of South America’s most prominent referees. In 2024, he officiated critical matches like the Copa Libertadores Final and the heated World Cup qualifier between Brazil and Argentina.
Claus’s ability to control the intensity of South American derbies has marked his career, demonstrating his strength in managing volatile situations. As one of the top referees in CONMEBOL competitions, Claus is celebrated for his fairness and consistency.
10. Wilton Sampaio (Brazil)
Wilton Sampaio, a 41-year-old Brazilian referee, had a strong presence in 2024, officiating FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the Copa do Brasil Final.
Sampaio’s performances in World Cup qualifiers stood out for their technical precision and strong decision-making.
Known for his steady and professional approach, he has become a consistent figure in major CONMEBOL tournaments, earning respect from players and coaches across South America.
Conclusion:
These referees have demonstrated unparalleled skill, integrity, and professionalism throughout the 2024 football season.
Their contributions on the field go beyond enforcing the rules—they play a vital role in maintaining the sport’s fairness and excitement. Each has carved a unique legacy, solidifying their status among the world’s best officials.