Wayne Barnes, who boasts the record for the most refereed Test rugby matches with 110, is set to officiate his first-ever World Cup final when the reigning champions South Africa go up against the All Blacks at the Stade de France.
Joining him will be fellow English officials Karl Dickson and Matthew Carley as assistant referees, while Tom Foley will serve as the Television Match Official.
Nic Berry will be in charge of the bronze final, which will feature England and Argentina, and his officiating team will comprise Georgia’s Nika Amashukeli and Ireland’s Andrew Brace as assistant referees, with Wales’ Ben Whitehouse as the TMO.
World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont congratulated Wayne Barnes on his well-deserved appointment as the Rugby World Cup 2023 final referee, highlighting Wayne’s outstanding career and his dedication to the sport. Beaumont also extended best wishes to both Wayne Barnes and Nic Berry.
RFU CEO Bill Sweeney expressed his delight at the composition of the match official team and the historic selection of all officials from one union. He praised the quality of English officials and their exceptional teamwork during the tournament.
Joël Jutge, World Rugby High Performance 15s Match Official Manager, lauded Wayne Barnes for his exceptional ability to comprehend and interpret the game, as well as his unwavering passion and dedication.
He emphasized that the success of the final and bronze final is the result of the collective efforts of the entire team of 26 officials. Jutge also congratulated Karl, Matthew, and Tom for their appointments to the final, as well as Nic, Nika, Andrew, and Ben for their roles in the bronze final.
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