The battle for a spot on the celebrated 2026 FIFA Worldwide Referees Listing has formally kicked off in Nigeria, as prime officers efficiently accomplished the world physique’s necessary health check this morning.
The rigorous train, supervised by the Nigeria Soccer Referees Committee, featured candidates from three disciplines — affiliation soccer, futsal, and seashore soccer — all of whom had undergone full medical screenings the day earlier than.
Passing the drills is just one piece of the puzzle. FIFA has outlined powerful international requirements for nomination, with associations required to submit their last names no later than Sunday, October 5, 2025.
Among the many key necessities: referees should be no less than 25 years previous, have officiated persistently on the prime home degree for 2 years, and clear a FIFA-approved medical and health evaluation. These older than 45 will face even stricter technical checks.
Importantly, FIFA has bolstered its gender-neutral strategy, making clear that each female and male officers will be nominated throughout all classes. New, tailor-made health benchmarks have additionally been launched for girls refereeing futsal and seashore soccer matches.
With the deadline quick approaching, the Nigerian refereeing fraternity is now abuzz with anticipation. For a lot of, this check was greater than a hurdle — it was the primary decisive step in securing a coveted worldwide badge.
