Cesar Ramos shows a yellow card during a Liga MX game in 2026. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Iran is set to take on New Zealand in both sides’ first FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G match.

This will be Iran’s seventh appearance at a FIFA World Cup, and fourth consecutive appearance. In its past three appearances, it has been knocked out in the group stages. For New Zealand, this will be only its third appearance, last being part of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where it got knocked out in the group stage.

Who is the referee for Iran vs New Zealand FIFA World Cup 2026 match?

The Iran vs New Zealand FIFA World Cup 2026 match will be officiated by Mexican referee Cesar Ramos.

Ramos has been a full international referee for FIFA since 2014, but debuted in the Mexican second division in 2008. This will be his third FIFA World Cup, having taken charge of three games at the 2018 edition and four games at the 2022 edition. Notably, he took charge of the France vs Morocco semifinal in 2022. The 42-year-old regularly takes charge of games in the Mexican first division.

Throughout his career, Ramos has taken charge of 544 games across all competitions, issuing 2301 yellow cards (average 4.23 per match), and 212 red cards (average 0.09 per match).

The Mexican has also refereed at three different Club World Cups, taking charge of two games at the 2018, 2024, and 2025 editions, notably the 2018 edition’s final.

Full list of referee/match officials for Iran vs New Zealand

• Referee: Cesar Ramos
• Assistant Referee 1: Alberto Morin
• Assistant Referee 2: Marco Bisguerra
• 4th Official: Yusuke Araki
• Reserve Assistant Referee: Jun Mihara

Published on Jun 15, 2026