Congolese official Jean-Jacques Ndala joins elite group in Qatar training

Jean-Jacques Ndala has been selected for a key World Cup referees’ training camp in Doha, moving a step closer to officiating at the 2026 tournament.

The Congolese official, who refereed the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, is among 15 match officials chosen to take part in an intensive preparation programme in Qatar.

The camp forms part of the build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

It is designed to sharpen both the physical condition and technical readiness of referees ahead of the global tournament.

Ndala’s inclusion underlines the regard in which he is held within African football and reflects growing confidence from international governing bodies in his abilities at the highest level.

Having overseen the showpiece match at AFCON 2025, his latest appointment signals further recognition of his performances on the continental stage.

Participation in the Doha camp is widely viewed as a significant milestone for referees aspiring to officiate at the World Cup.

The programme in Qatar will focus on fitness assessments, match simulations and technical workshops, ensuring that selected officials meet the standards required for football’s most prestigious competition.

For Ndala, the opportunity represents a major step forward in his career.

A place at the World Cup would see him represent the Democratic Republic of Congo on the sport’s biggest platform.

With preparations for 2026 gathering pace, the Doha training camp marks a decisive phase in the selection process for referees.

Ndala’s presence among the chosen 15 keeps him firmly in contention as the countdown to the tournament continues.