Algerian Football Federation (FAF) President Walid Sadi has voiced serious concern over the standard of officiating in the domestic league, following a series of controversial refereeing decisions in recent matches.
Speaking at a meeting held on Monday, 21 April 2025, at the federation’s headquarters, Sadi convened Algeria’s elite referees in what was described by the FAF as a “mobilisation and awareness session.”
The gathering aimed to address recent officiating lapses and reinforce the critical role referees play as the league approaches its decisive final stretch.
In a statement issued after the meeting, the FAF confirmed that the president had directly acknowledged the “shortcomings” observed in recent games. “Mr. Sadi expressed his deep concern about these shortcomings,” the statement read, “while instructing the Federal Arbitration Commission to analyse them rigorously and with discernment.”
The meeting comes at a crucial juncture in the season, with key fixtures ahead that could determine league titles, relegations, and continental qualification spots.
With tensions rising both on and off the pitch, the quality and fairness of refereeing have come under intense scrutiny from clubs, supporters, and media alike.
Sadi used the occasion to reaffirm the Federation’s support for match officials but also to remind them of the immense responsibility their role carries.
“He emphasized the need to strengthen support for referees,” the FAF added, “as the end of the season promises to be decisive from a sporting perspective.”
Reiterating the Federation’s expectations, the FAF president made it clear that referees must rise to the occasion and uphold the integrity of the competition.
The President of the FAF also reminded the referees of the importance of the mission entrusted to them and the responsibility that results from it, reiterating on this occasion the unwavering support of the Federation,” the statement continued.
With the championship entering a critical phase, the pressure is mounting on all parties involved.
For referees, whose decisions can sway the outcome of a title race or relegation battle, the call for precision, fairness, and accountability has never been louder.
The FAF’s move to directly engage referees underscores the growing urgency to restore confidence in Algerian football’s officiating standards.
As the season reaches its climax, all eyes will be on the men in the middle to ensure that results are decided by the players on the pitch—not by errors from the officials.
