The 2026 FIFA World Cup Group D opener between Turkiye and Australia will be officiated by Venezuelan referee Jesus Valenzuela.

Axar.az reports, citing Turkish media, Valenzuela, an experienced CONMEBOL official and long-time FIFA-listed referee, will be in charge of Turkiye's first match of the tournament, scheduled to be played in Vancouver, Canada.

The match will kick off at 08:00 Baku time.

He will be assisted by Jorge Urrego and Tulio Moreno, both also from Venezuela, while Peru’s Michael Orue will serve as the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), responsible for reviewing key incidents such as goals, penalties, and red cards.

Valenzuela has been a FIFA referee since 2013 and previously officiated matches at major international tournaments, earning recognition for his consistency at elite-level competitions.

The appointment finalizes the officiating team for Turkiye's opening Group D fixture as both sides prepare to begin their World Cup campaign.