Croatia will have its man in the World Cup final: here is who Marko is and what role he will play

Marko Ivaci will be part of the FIFA World Cup final, serving as the technical operator in the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) room. The Croatian presence in the match between Spain and Argentina adds a unique dimension to the global sporting event, with Ivaci representing his homeland despite not being directly involved in the game itself. Based in Italy under the Italian flag, Ivaci's role in the final underscores the growing international collaboration in modern football officiating. Born and raised in Italy, Ivaci spent much of his childhood in Milan, where he completed his university studies before returning to his family’s home in Kurilovac, Croatia. His journey into sports technology began through a different sport, handball. His mother, Liljana, was once a handball representative who played in Italy for over three decades. She inspired Ivaci’s early interest in sports, while his father, Dado, was a musician. This blend of artistic and athletic influences shaped Ivaci’s path toward a career in sports technology. Ivaci’s transition to football came after completing his education. He joined the VAR system four years ago and quickly rose through the ranks due to his expertise and dedication. His work has included major tournaments such as the Olympics and the World Club Championships, where he gained recognition for his precision and reliability. During the recent World Cup in the United States, Ivaci worked in the central VAR unit in Dallas, earning praise for his performance. He was also mentored by Croatian referee Ivan Bebek, further solidifying his reputation within the international football community. The announcement of Ivaci’s participation in the final brought immense joy to his family. His mother, currently a coach at ŽRK Udarnik, expressed her emotions openly. “He told us early in the morning, as soon as I saw my phone, we lost our minds with happiness,” she recalled. “We laughed, cried, sang, and shouted, this feeling is incredible. It’s the top, and there’s nothing beyond this.” Her pride reflects the deep connection between family and achievement, especially in a field where success often requires long hours and unwavering commitment. Ivaci’s selection for the final is a culmination of years of hard work and talent. His inclusion in the VAR team highlights the high standards of the FIFA system, which prioritizes excellence in decision-making. As one of the best in his field, Ivaci’s appointment signals a broader trend of recognizing and utilizing skilled professionals from diverse backgrounds. His presence in the final not only brings a Croatian touch to the proceedings but also serves as a testament to the global nature of modern football. Looking ahead, Ivaci’s focus will remain on ensuring that the VAR process runs smoothly during the final. With the stakes at their highest, his role will be critical in supporting the referees and maintaining the integrity of the match. As the world watches the clash between Spain and Argentina, the contributions of individuals like Ivaci behind the scenes play a vital role in shaping the outcome. His story is one of perseverance, passion, and the power of family support in achieving greatness.