Alireza Faghani Officiates Club World Cup Final

This final also marked a broader shift in FIFA’s approach to selecting referees. While European and South American officials have long dominated high-profile matches, Faghani’s appointment shows a growing appreciation for officiating talent from Asia and Oceania. It suggests that meritocracy is beginning to outweigh tradition in the world of elite sports governance. His presence on such a big stage will likely pave the way for more referees from less historically prominent football regions.