FIFA seminar for female referees opens in Oran

A FIFA MA seminar dedicated to the development of female referees began on Sunday in Oran, bringing together participants for five days of intensive training and instruction.

Organised by the National Refereeing Directorate (DNA) in partnership with FIFA’s Refereeing Development Department, the programme will run until 25 September at the Mediterranean Village.

It aims to equip referees with the technical and physical skills needed to officiate at the highest levels of the game.

The course is being delivered by two FIFA-appointed experts.

Désiré Doué Noumandiez of Ivory Coast, serving as a technical instructor, is joined by Algeria’s Nassereddine Cherifi, who is overseeing the physical training aspects.

Their combined expertise is expected to provide participants with a well-rounded experience, focusing not only on decision-making and game management but also on the fitness demands required of elite referees.

The opening ceremony was presided over by Mohamed Lamine Benaïssa, Head of Training and Development at the DNA.

In his address, he welcomed the attendees and underlined the importance of initiatives such as this in advancing women’s participation in refereeing.

This seminar is part of our vision to support female referees and give them the tools they need to succeed, Benaïssa said. Through the knowledge shared here, we hope to see more women progressing in their careers, both domestically and internationally.

The event reflects the Algerian Football Federation’s (FAF) wider commitment to strengthening the presence of women in football, particularly in officiating roles.

By aligning with FIFA’s development programmes, the FAF seeks to provide opportunities that will enable referees to raise their standards and aspire to officiate at major international tournaments.

Throughout the seminar, participants will take part in classroom sessions, practical field exercises, and fitness drills.

The curriculum is designed not only to enhance technical accuracy and consistency in decision-making but also to reinforce the physical endurance required to keep pace with the modern game.

For many of the referees attending, the seminar offers a rare opportunity to learn directly from internationally recognised instructors.

It is also an important step in fostering a stronger network of female officials in Algeria and beyond.

With the seminar running until Thursday, the coming days are expected to be crucial in helping participants gain the confidence and expertise needed to elevate their performance.

For Algerian football, it marks another milestone in its ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity and professional development across all areas of the sport.