Full name: Alireza Faghani

Born: March 21, 1978, in Kashmar, Iran

Nationality: Iranian-born, later naturalized Australian

Refereeing career:

• Became a FIFA referee in 2008

• He has officiated at two FIFA World Cups (2018 & 2022).

• He refereed the final of the men’s football tournament at the 2016 Olympics (Brazil vs Germany)

• He’s also worked big matches in AFC competitions (Asian Cup) and Club World Cup.

Awards: He won the Golden Whistle in the Persian Gulf Pro League (Iran) for his refereeing performance.

Move to Australia: He moved with his family to Australia in 2019 and now works as a full-time referee for Football Australia.

Recent appointment: He has been selected to referee the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final.