A journalist by trade, the 44-year-old has come under fire in his native country recently for his performance in a domestic match between Vasco and Botafogo, with both coaches complaining to the Brazilian authorities.

Simon is highly regarded by FIFA, though, and this will be the start of a record third World Cup campaign for the South American.

English official Howard Webb will have to wait until June 16 for his first involvement as he will take charge of Spain's Group H encounter with Switzerland.