The excitement is building, the stakes are higher than ever and the world is anxiously awaiting the pinnacle of rugby competition.

The 2023 Rugby World Cup quarterfinals are upon us, and as the world's top rugby nations clash in the pursuit of ultimate glory, there's one crucial factor that will ensure fair play and maintain the integrity of the tournament - the referees.

In a tournament where the finest margins can separate victory from defeat, the appointment of referees is a matter of utmost importance. Their decisions can sway the course of a match and determine the fate of nations.

So, as we prepare for these thrilling encounters, let's take a closer look at the individuals entrusted with upholding the spirit and rules of the game in this crucial stage of the competition.

Wales Vs. Argentina

Date and venue: Orange Vélodrome Marseille - Oct. 14 - 4 p.m. local time
Referee: Jaco Peyper
Nationality: South African (SARU)
Age: 43
International debut: 2011
Assistant Referee 1: Karl Dickson (RFU)
Assistant Referee 2: Andrea Piardi (FIR)
TMO: Marius Jonker (SARU)

Ireland Vs. New Zealand

Date and venue: Stade de France Paris - Oct. 14 - 9 p.m. local time
Referee: Wayne Barnes
Nationality: English (RFU)
Age: 44
International debut: 2006
Assistant Referee 1: Matthew Carley (RFU)
Assistant Referee 2: Christophe Ridley (RFU)
TMO: Tom Foley (RFU)

England Vs. Fiji

Date and venue: Orange Vélodrome Marseille - Oct. 15 - 4 p.m. local time
Referee: Mathieu Raynal (FFR)
Nationality: France
Age: 42
International debut: 2009
Assistant Referee 1: Nic Berry (RA)
Assistant Referee 2: Pierre Brousset (FFR)
TMO: Ben Whitehouse (WRU)

France Vs. South Africa

Date and venue: Stade de France Paris - Oct. 15 - 9 p.m. local time
Referee: Ben O'Keeffe
Nationality: New Zealand (NZR)
Age: 34
International debut: 2015
Assistant Referee 1: Paul Williams (NZR)
Assistant Referee 2: James Doleman (NZR)
TMO: Brendon Pickerill (NZR)