Said Martínez Set to Make History as First Honduran Lead Referee at a FIFA World Cup

Said Martínez will make history as the first Honduran referee at a FIFA World Cup.

TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras – For Concacaf referee Said Martínez, the FIFA World Cup 2026 represents both a historic achievement and an opportunity for redemption.

After serving as an assistant referee in nine matches at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, Martínez is set to make history as the first Honduran selected as a lead referee at the world's biggest sporting event.

The native of Tocoa has built an impressive résumé over the course of his refereeing career, taking charge of some of the most important matches in the region and beyond. His assignments have included the Concacaf Gold Cup Final in 2021 and 2023, the 2023 Concacaf Nations League Final, the 2025 Concacaf Nations League Semifinals, Concacaf Champions Cup matches, and the FIFA U-20 World Cup Poland 2019.

Martínez has also officiated in Leagues Cup, including Lionel Messi's debut for Inter Miami CF in the 2023 tournament.

One of nine referees selected from Concacaf for FIFA World Cup 2026, Martínez is also part of a record 29 match officials appointed from the Confederation. The selection presents an opportunity he never imagined when he began his refereeing journey more than two decades ago.

As he prepares to take the field at FIFA World Cup 2026, Martínez's selection marks a landmark moment for Honduran refereeing and another milestone for Concacaf officials on the global stage, inspiring a new generation of referees throughout the region.