Copy linkFacebookXPinterestEmailShare this article 0Join the conversationFollow usAdd us as a preferred source on GoogleNewsletterSubscribe to our newsletterThe host nations have all kicked off their World Cup campaigns, and now it's the turn of past hosts Qatar to get underway.After hosting in 2022, Qatar are back again this summer. They take on Switzerland in their Group B opener at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, with kick-off set for 3pm ET (8pm UK time).The officials have been heavily involved in the 2026 World Cup already, and we know who will be taking charge of the clash between Qatar and Switzerland.The referee for Qatar vs SwitzerlandSaid Martinez will be the referee for the Qatar vs Switzerland game, and it's a momentous step for the official.He will be the first Honduran-born referee to take charge of a World Cup game when he oversees the Group B match. You may like How to watch Qatar vs Switzerland live streams online and for FREE, with the 2022 hosts taking on Murat Yakin's side Qatar vs Switzerland prediction, as Group B closes in California Qatar squad World Cup 2026: Julen Lopetegui's final Group B selection Martinez is only 34-years-old, but he's been a referee since he was just 18, having dreamed of following in his father's footsteps.He was the youngest-ever referee in the Honduras top division, has officiated in Nations League games before, and even refereed the 2021 Concacaf Gold Cup final between Mexico and USA.Get FourFourTwo NewsletterThe best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.Martinez earned the nickname "El Matematico," after leaving his refereeing career behind briefly to study mathematics instead.Having returned to the game, Martinez now holds a record of showing, on average, 4.22 yellow cards per game across his 310 matches. He's also shown 106 red cards in his career.Even in South America, where tough tackling is more prevalent, Martinez's record makes him one of the more card-happy referees in the region.Alongside Martinez on Saturday evening, we'll see compatriots Walter Lopez and Christian Ramirez as assistant referees.Jamaican Oshane Nation will be the fourth official. Meanwhile, Mauro Vigliano of Argentina will be on VAR duty for the game.Got any thoughts on Martinez's performance? Let us know below...TOPICSQatarSwitzerlandJakob BarnesFreelance WriterJakob has over 11 years of experience in journalism across sports, entertainment, tech, and politics. Now a freelance news writer for FourFourTwo, he covers the biggest stories from the world of football.
