Egyptian football is set for significant changes in its refereeing system, with newly appointed referees’ committee chairman Oscar Ruiz pledging to implement a structured development plan.
The 55-year-old Colombian, tasked with overseeing the transformation, has expressed his commitment to raising officiating standards in the Egyptian Premier League.
A new era for Egyptian refereeing
Ruiz’s appointment comes following demands from Premier League clubs for an overhaul of the refereeing structure.
The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) recently confirmed his arrival, marking the beginning of what is expected to be a crucial period for officials in the country.
Speaking about his vision for the role, Ruiz emphasised the urgency of the task ahead.
It is time to work, and we have launched a plan to develop the level of referees,” he stated. His approach aims to introduce new training methods, improve decision-making, and ensure greater consistency in officiating standards across all levels of Egyptian football.
A critical phase in the domestic season
The announcement coincides with a crucial stage in the Egyptian Premier League.
The first half of the 2024-2025 season concluded on March 5 after 17 rounds of competitive fixtures.
With the second half set to resume on March 11, Ruiz’s reforms are expected to take effect at a time when officiating decisions will be under heightened scrutiny in the title race.
Addressing refereeing concerns
Egyptian football has faced ongoing criticism regarding the quality of refereeing, with complaints from clubs about inconsistency and controversial decisions.
The introduction of a foreign head of the referees’ committee reflects the EFA’s determination to address these issues and restore confidence in match officials.
Ruiz, a former FIFA referee with extensive experience officiating high-profile international matches, is expected to introduce measures that align Egyptian refereeing standards with global best practices.
His plan is likely to focus on rigorous training programs, increased use of technology, and the promotion of young referees capable of handling high-pressure matches.
A long-term vision for Egyptian officiating
While immediate improvements may take time, Ruiz’s appointment signals a long-term commitment to raising the overall standard of refereeing in Egypt.
With the Premier League entering a decisive phase, his work will be closely watched by clubs, players, and fans eager to see a fairer and more professional approach to officiating.
As the second half of the season kicks off, Egyptian football enters a new chapter—one in which Ruiz’s expertise and leadership could prove instrumental in shaping the future of refereeing in the country.
