'Proud' referee Slavko Vinčić ready for Champions League final 'goosebumps'

For a referee, just like a player, there is no greater stage in club football than the UEFA Champions League final.

To take part in such an occasion is an experience reserved for the luckiest few, a tiny percentage whose hard work and determination has led them to the top. On Saturday, Slovenia's Slavko Vinčić will become the latest official to have been bestowed the honour.

"When I received the news, it was a very emotional moment and I am still feeling these big emotions as I talk about it, it's a very difficult thing to describe," says the 44-year-old. "I'm proud for myself and my team because we work very hard together.

Slavko Vinčić prior to the 2022/23 UEFA Nations League semi-final match between Spain and ItalyUEFA via Getty Images

Vinčić, a father of two, also took charge of the 2022 UEFA Europa League final and is among the selected referees for UEFA EURO 2024. There is no doubt though, that the Champions League final will be the highlight so far of a career that began almost 25 years ago.

"If I am honest, when I started refereeing I am not sure my dreams went so far as the Champions League final, so it's really a big thing," he smiles.

"I can't remember my first match because it's so long ago, but I started in my home city, Maribor when I was 20 years old, and every step, from the third division in 2007 to the second, to the first and then to becoming an international referee in 2010 has felt like a big success. The time has passed so quickly, but it will only be later that I can stop and reflect on the journey."

Slavko Vinčić during the 2022/23 UEFA Champions League match between Manchester City and RB Leipzig AFP via Getty Images

For now, full focus is on Saturday's assignment, but just how does it feel to be at the centre of a UEFA Champions League game?

"Before the match, just like anybody else when you hear the iconic music, the heart rate rises and you feel the goosebumps," Vinčić' says. "It happens every time, and I still feel proud and happy, but on the other hand, we are also focused on our obligations and ready to return the trust placed in us.

"Of course, the final is a huge occasion, but I will prepare for the game in the same way as any other match. We know the teams well anyway but we will refresh our knowledge, speak to our football analysts and be as ready as we can. It's important that we stay concentrated because we have an important job."

Check out UEFA’s "Be a Referee!" campaign, which aims to increase knowledge about refereeing, highlight the importance of referees for the game and inspire young people start a career as a match official.

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