FIFA Unveils Record 170 Match Officials for 2026 World Cup
FIFA has announced a record 170 match officials for the 2026 World Cup, the largest lineup in tournament history. This includes 52 referees, 88 assistant referees and 30 video match officials drawn from all six confederations and 50 member associations. The three-year selection process focused on quality, consistency and performance at both domestic and international levels. FIFA’s refereeing team has benefitted from dedicated fitness coaches, medical staff and mental specialists to ensure peak readiness. Six women officials continue the trend from Qatar 2022, reflecting FIFA’s commitment to developing women’s refereeing. Officials will train daily, using comprehensive match analysis and input from local players to prepare for each game. Advanced technology will also feature heavily. Fans will see live views from on-field referee perspectives. Goal-line tech, a semi-automated offside system, connected ball technology and AI-powered referee cameras will enhance transparency and match flow. Officials will assemble in Miami on May 31 before the tournament begins.
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