FIFA World Cup Viral Referee Announcement: Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio has become a talking point following the FIFA World Cup 2026 opener between Mexico and South Africa, held at Estadio Azteca. The experienced official notably issued three red cards during the fixture, but it was his public VAR announcement that grabbed attention online. After reviewing an incident involving South Africa's Themba Zwane, Sampaio explained the decision in English before sending the player off.
His pronunciation and accent appeared to leave several players confused, with their reactions quickly going viral on social media.
Social Media Reacts
Fans wasted little time sharing clips of the moment online, with many focusing on the puzzled expressions of the South African players standing nearby during the announcement.
"South African player clearly in shock at being next to Wilton Pereira Sampaio" one user said in a tweet.
Here are some more reactions from social media:
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Experienced Official Under Spotlight
Despite the viral moment, Sampaio is one of South America's most experienced referees.
He has officiated matches at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, was a part of the VAR team at the 2018 World Cup, which marked the technology's debut in the tournament, as well as several CONMEBOL and Copa America fixtures.
Mexico eventually won the match 2-0, with Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez finding the net, and one of their own players being sent off in extra time.