As reported by Africa Top Sports.com, FIFA (International Federation of Association Football) has unveiled the list of referees for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Notably, there is no French referee among the selected officials. However, Tahitian referee Norbert Hauata has been included in the list.
Norbert Hauata, aged 34, is one of five referees from Oceania, which includes French Polynesia, to be selected. He currently depends on the Tahitian Football Federation (FTF), recognized by FIFA. Hauata, who works as a construction worker on the island of Moorea, will participate in a seminar in Spain with all the selected referees from February 9 to 14.
In response to the absence of French referees, there have been various reactions in France. Noel Le Graët, president of the French Football Federation (FFF), expressed disappointment, stating, “This decision shows us that our arbitration, currently in the midst of reform, still needs to do work to be part of the highest international level.” Pascal Garibian, the head of the National Technical Directorate of Arbitration, also expressed disappointment but emphasized the need to continue working on the reform of arbitration in France.
