FIFA Confirms Michael Oliver Out of Ecuador vs Ivory Coast With Minor Injury

Injury Forces Michael Oliver to Pull Out of World Cup Game

Premier League official Michael Oliver has been ruled out of his opening assignment at the 2026 World Cup after picking up a minor injury. The English referee was originally set to take charge of Ecuador vs Ivory Coast in Philadelphia in the early hours of Monday morning, but FIFA have confirmed he will be replaced for the Group E match.

Frenchman François Letexier will now lead the officiating team for the clash. In a brief statement, FIFA said: “Appointment change: Due to a minor injury, referee Michael Oliver (ENG) has been replaced by François Letexier (FRA). Oliver is expected to be available for selection again in the coming days.”

Oliver’s absence also triggers changes to the assistant lineup. UK officials Stuart Burt and James Mainwaring, who were slated to run the line, will miss out as well. They’ve been replaced by Cyril Mugnier and Mehdi Rahmouni, who will work alongside Letexier. Saudi Arabia’s Khalid Alturais and Mohammed Alabakrv remain as fourth official and reserve assistant.

Oliver has been on FIFA’s international list since 2012 and part of UEFA’s Elite Group since 2018. FIFA expects him to return for the next round of group matches.