FIFA has released a detailed breakdown of match officials selected for the 2026 World Cup, outlining how referees, assistant referees, and VAR officials will be distributed across all six continental confederations ahead of the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The list highlights a strong European presence while ensuring global representation from Africa, Asia, South America, Oceania, and the CONCACAF region.
According to the breakdown, UEFA leads the way with 18 main referees, supported by 30 assistant referees and 11 VAR officials, making Europe the most heavily represented confederation in officiating appointments.
South America’s CONMEBOL follows with 8 main referees, 14 assistants, and 7 VAR officials, reflecting the continent’s long-standing influence in FIFA competitions.
Asia’s AFC will contribute 11 main referees, 18 assistant referees, and 4 VAR officials, while the CONCACAF region—hosts of the tournament—will provide 6 main referees, 10 assistants, and 4 VAR officials.
From Africa, CAF has been allocated 6 main referees, 6 assistant referees, and 2 VAR officials, underscoring the continent’s continued presence in global football officiating.
Oceania’s OFC completes the list with 3 main referees, 4 assistant referees, and 2 VAR officials.
The distribution reflects FIFA’s ongoing commitment to balanced global representation while maintaining experience and depth in officiating for the expanded 2026 World Cup format.
With preparations intensifying, the selected officials are expected to undergo further assessments and training in the build-up to football’s biggest tournament.
Morocco and Mali set for friendly as probable line-ups emerge Oct 3, 2026
