AFCON 2025: Late health issue ends Algerian referee Youcef Gamouh’s appointment

Youcef Gamouh will not officiate at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after being forced to withdraw from the tournament just days before the opening match, dealing a significant blow to Algeria’s refereeing contingent ahead of the continental showpiece in Morocco.

The 38-year-old had been selected as one of the main referees for the competition, a recognition that reflected his growing stature within African and international officiating circles.

However, that appointment has now been cut short after the Algerian Football Federation confirmed that Gamouh is unavailable for health reasons.

In a brief public statement, the federation announced his withdrawal and expressed its support for the referee during his recovery, effectively ending his involvement in this edition of the Africa Cup of Nations.

No further details were provided regarding the nature or expected duration of the health issue, but the decision was presented as definitive.

Gamouh’s absence is a notable setback given his recent rise on the international stage.

Over the past few seasons, he has built a reputation for calm authority and consistency in high-pressure matches across the African continent.

His performances had earned him increased trust from governing bodies, culminating in his participation at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Chile, a tournament widely viewed as a proving ground for elite refereeing talent.

That appointment was seen as a strong endorsement of Gamouh’s progress and a signal that he was being closely monitored for future senior international assignments.

His selection for AFCON 2025 appeared to confirm that trajectory, positioning him among the leading officials on the continent.

For Algeria, the withdrawal reduces its presence among the match officials at a time when representation at major tournaments carries both symbolic and professional significance.

While the country will still be represented within the refereeing delegation in Morocco, the loss of Gamouh narrows its influence on the pitch.

The Algerian delegation will now include four officials, but only one — Mustapha Ghorbal — will serve as a central referee during the tournament.

Ghorbal, who already boasts extensive experience at AFCON and FIFA competitions, will shoulder sole responsibility for representing Algeria in the middle, with the remaining officials assigned to supporting roles.

Gamouh’s withdrawal also highlights the often-overlooked physical and mental demands placed on referees at elite tournaments.

With matches scheduled in quick succession and scrutiny intensified, fitness standards are unforgiving, and even minor health concerns can lead to enforced absences.

As the Africa Cup of Nations approaches, attention will inevitably turn back to the action on the pitch.

Yet for Algerian refereeing, Gamouh’s absence will linger as a reminder of what might have been.

His progression had made him one of the country’s most promising officials, and missing AFCON 2025 represents a missed opportunity to further cement his status on Africa’s biggest stage.

For now, the focus remains on recovery.

The federation’s message of support suggests confidence that Gamouh will return to duty in due course, with his long-term prospects unchanged despite this late setback.