World Cup 2026: Injury forces referee change for Ivory Coast's clash with Ecuador

Ivory Coast's opening 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Ecuador will be officiated by France's Francois Letexier after English referee Michael Oliver was ruled out through injury.

Oliver, 41, had been appointed to take charge of the Group E encounter in Philadelphia on Sunday but has been replaced after suffering an injury.

FIFA confirmed the change on Saturday, adding that the experienced English official is expected to return to the pool of available referees "in the coming days."

The switch means Letexier will oversee the crucial fixture as Ivory Coast begin their World Cup campaign.

Oliver is among six English on-field officials selected for the tournament, alongside fellow referee Anthony Taylor. Assistant referees Gary Beswick, Adam Nunn, Stuart Burt and James Mainwaring are also representing England.

One of Europe's most experienced officials, Oliver has refereed in the Premier League since 2010 and joined UEFA's elite list in 2018. He also officiated at the 2022 World Cup, including the quarter-final between Croatia and Brazil, as well as matches at Euro 2024.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup features 52 referees, 88 assistant referees and 30 video match officials from around the world for matches across the United States, Canada and Mexico.