23.06.2026 13:10
The off-field life of Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton, who drew attention for his decisions in the World Cup match between the National Team and Paraguay, has been revealed. It was learned that Barton, who officiated in the World Cup, is also a university lecturer.
Ivan Barton, who officiated the match between Turkey and Paraguay in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, drew the attention of the football community with his decisions. In particular, the red card he showed to Paraguay's Almiron after a VAR review became one of the most talked-about moments of the match.
NOT JUST A REFEREE
The life story of the Salvadoran referee, who has been working in the football world for many years, surprised many. Growing up in El Salvador, where gangs and violence are frequently on the agenda, Barton successfully completed his education, graduating from the University of El Salvador's Department of Chemical Sciences.
WEEKDAY PROFESSOR, WEEKEND REFEREE
It has been revealed that Ivan Barton doesn't just work as a referee. The experienced figure lectures as an instructor at the university during the week, while blowing the whistle in professional football matches on weekends.
Due to this characteristic, Barton faced various comments in football circles for years, occasionally being criticized as a "part-time referee from the laboratory."
HE HAD BEEN THE TARGET OF CRITICISM
Barton has also been at the center of many controversies throughout his career. Following a match played last season, coach Jorge Jesus harshly criticized the Salvadoran referee, saying, "There's no football in El Salvador; stop bringing these referees."
IN THE WORLD CUP FOR THE SECOND TIME
Despite all the criticism, Ivan Barton, who continued his rise in his career, achieved the success of taking part in a World Cup organization for the second time by officiating at the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
FOOTBALL'S SHUNNED PROFESSOR
Barton, who continues his academic career while also working in the world's biggest football organizations, continues to draw attention with his extraordinary story. The Salvadoran referee, who became a well-known figure to many football fans after his performance in the Turkey-Paraguay match, maintains his career both on the field and in the academic world.