João Pinheiro called up for the 2026 World Cup: “It is a very important milestone for Portuguese refereeing as well”

Portuguese refereeing returns to the FIFA World Cup after a 12-year absence, with João Pinheiro selected for the 2026 tournament in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. Pinheiro, an elite UEFA referee and lawyer, will be accompanied by assistant referees Luciano Maia and Bruno Jesus. The appointment is being celebrated by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) and its president, Pedro Proença, as a recognition of the quality and dedication of Portuguese officials.