The report says Mariani, an Italian referee since 2019, will lead the officiating team in what is expected to be his first major international tournament. His background includes European and international fixtures, while his work as a merchant navy sailor adds an unusual detail to his profile.
The wider team is also set to include Italian assistants Daniele Bindoni and Alberto Tegoni, with Canadian official Drew Thomas Fischer named as fourth referee. Italian referee Marco Di Bello is reportedly assigned to VAR, assisted by Croatia’s Ivan Bebek.
That mix gives the match a distinctly international officiating group before either side has touched the ball.
The update says selected the flamingo-pink design because Miami will serve as the referees’ base during the tournament. The colour is intended as a visual link to the city rather than a sporting statement.
It should also provide a clear contrast with Uruguay’s sky blue and Saudi Arabia’s green. Referee kits are designed to stand apart from both teams, and the Miami-inspired shade should make the officiating crew immediately recognisable.
The decision adds local character to a fixture that might otherwise be judged only through its Group H implications.
Uruguay arrive with the weight of a two-time world champion, while Saudi Arabia will look to frustrate a more experienced opponent and make the opening match count. Early control, discipline and set pieces could matter as much as possession in a first group game.
The pink shirt will attract attention before kick-off. After that, Mariani’s decisions-and which team handles the pressure better-will shape the first Group H storyline.