FIFA appoints Adham Makhadmeh, of Bosnian heritage, as the referee of the US vs Belgium match.

The Jordanian-Bosnian referee has caused quite the stir on social media.

Adham Makhadmeh was born in Irbid, Jordan in February, 1987. He was born to a Jordanian father and Bosnian mother. He holds both Jordanian and Bosnian citizenship.

He became a FIFA-listed referee in 2013 and has represented the Jordanian Football Association on the global stage. He has officiated major tournaments including AFC Asian Cup, AFC Champions League, Olympic Games, FIFA youth competitions, and most recently, the 2026 FIFA World Cup. (Biography Arena, 2026)

In 2017, he was selected to referee the first leg of the AFC Champions League final between Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal and Japan’s Urawa Red Diamonds, one of the most prestigious matches in Asian club football.

At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he officiated six matches, many of which were high-profile fixtures including England vs. DR Congo and, most recently, the United States vs. Belgium. His appointment to a knockout-stage match at the highest level of international football proves his expertise and consistency.

Following Bosnia and Herzegovina’s elimination to the United States, some American fans questioned whether Makhadmeh may be biased due to his Bosnian heritage when he was assigned to officiate another American match against Belgium. However, his performance demonstrated the professionalism expected of a FIFA referee, with no evidence of favoritism toward either side. Instead, Makhadmeh continued to officiate the match fairly (a clear representation of Bosnian integrity).

A source of pride for Bosnians

For Bosnians around the world, Makhadmeh’s presence at the World Cup represents a historic achievement. While BiH has produced many successful players, coaches, and football figures, the country has never had a referee represent it at the FIFA World Cup. Seeing a referee of Bosnian heritage take charge of some of the tournament’s biggest matches is a huge milestone for Bosnians. Makhadmeh has established himself as one of the most respected referees in international football.