Football Australia has confirmed the match officials for the Hahn Australia Cup 2026 Final between South Melbourne FC and Melbourne Victory FC at AAMI Park on Saturday, 10 October, with Alireza Faghani appointed to referee his first Hahn Australia Cup Final.
Football Queensland’s Faghani will be joined by assistant referees Luke Gennimatas (Football Victoria) and Claire Green (Football Tasmania), with Caitlin Williams (Football Victoria) appointed as fourth official.
Shaun Evans (Football Victoria) will serve as Video Assistant Referee (VAR), supported by Maddy Allum (Football NSW) as Assistant Video Assistant Referee (AVAR).
The Final will mark the first use of VAR in the Hahn Australia Cup, providing additional support to the on-field officiating team.
Faghani brings extensive international experience, having refereed the 2016 Olympic Men’s Football Final, the 2018 FIFA World Cup™ third-place play-off and the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup™ Final.
Quotes attributable to Football Australia Head of Refereeing, Jon Moss:
“An Australia Cup Final appointment is a tremendous honour and recognition of the dedication, professionalism and performances of our match officials,” Moss said.
“Alireza brings outstanding experience from some of the biggest matches in world football, and I am delighted to see him appointed to his first Australia Cup Final.
“Congratulations also to Luke, Claire, Caitlin, Shaun and Maddy. Their selection reflects their hard work and commitment to high standards, and each has an important role to play in this showcase occasion.
“The introduction of VAR is a significant step for the competition. Our focus is on ensuring the entire officiating team is thoroughly prepared and ready to deliver a strong performance.”
Quotes attributable to Football Australia Referees Committee Chair, David Elleray:
“Alireza’s appointment is a fitting tribute to his skills, experience and commitment to officiating at the very highest levels of the game,” Elleray said.
“Alongside Luke, Claire, Caitlin, Shaun and Maddy, this team represents the very best of Australian officiating.
“Their appointments demonstrate that officials from all backgrounds can reach the top matches through hard work, ability and the right attitude.
“On behalf of the Football Australia Referees Committee, I congratulate all six officials. We have full confidence in their ability to contribute to an enjoyable and memorable Final for players, coaches and fans.”
Hahn Australia Cup 2026 Final match officials:
Referee: Alireza Faghani (Football Queensland)
Assistant Referee 1: Luke Gennimatas (Football Victoria)
Assistant Referee 2: Claire Green (Football Tasmania)
Fourth Official: Caitlin Williams (Football Victoria)
Video Assistant Referee: Shaun Evans (Football Victoria)
Assistant Video Assistant Referee: Maddy Allum (Football NSW)
Match Details:
Hahn Australia Cup Final 2026
South Melbourne FC v Melbourne Victory FC
Date: Saturday, 10 October 2026
Venue: AAMI Park, Melbourne
Kick-off: 7.35pm AEDT
Gates Open: 6:00pm AEDT
Broadcast: Network 10 and Paramount+
