The selected referees are gearing up for their crucial roles in the tournament. Recently unveiled by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the 68 officials chosen for this prestigious event are now marking their calendars for the arrival date and immersing themselves in preparations in Abidjan.
In a significant announcement, the CAF has specified that all selected referees are expected to arrive in Ivory Coast on January 5, 2024. Upon arrival, the officials will embark on an intensive refresher course designed to prepare them comprehensively for the challenges of the thirty-fourth edition of AFCON.
This preparatory phase encompasses both physical and theoretical tests, ensuring that the referees are in optimal form as they officiate in the tournament, scheduled to take place in Ivory Coast from January 13 to February 11, 2024.
The list of 68 selected referees comprises highly experienced individuals from across the continent, with diverse roles such as main referees, assistant referees, and VAR referees.
The Referees Commission of the Confederation of African Football meticulously selected 26 main referees, 30 assistant referees, and 12 VAR referees, recognizing their proficiency in previous CAF international competitions.
Notably, Morocco and Egypt lead the representation with 7 referees each, showcasing the depth of officiating talent in these countries.
Algeria closely follows with 5 representatives, while the host country, Ivory Coast, as well as Gabon and Senegal, contribute 3 each.
In a noteworthy inclusion, six female referees have been selected among the 68, underscoring the commitment to diversity and inclusivity in the officiating team.
As the referees prepare to officiate in AFCON 2023, the comprehensive training program and the diverse representation among the officials contribute to the vibrancy and inclusiveness of this highly anticipated tournament, set to captivate football enthusiasts from January 13 to February 11, 2024.
