Egyptian referees begin VAR refresher courses ahead of league return

The Egyptian Football Association’s Main Referees Committee has started refresher courses for Video Assistant Referee (VAR) officials as preparations continue for the return of the Egyptian Premier League.

The programme, led by committee chairman Essam Abdel-Fattah, is being held at the National Teams Centre in 6 October City during the current break in domestic football.

The first sessions began on Monday, 9 November, with the VAR referees divided into two groups and attending at separate times according to the schedule set by the committee.

The opening day included video tests and theoretical examinations. Officials also reviewed and discussed a number of refereeing incidents from matches in the Egypt Capital Cup, the Egyptian Premier League and the Egypt Cup.

The courses form part of the committee’s preparations to ensure referees are technically ready before domestic competitions resume. Particular attention is being given to reviewing different match situations and improving the accuracy of decisions made with the assistance of VAR.

The Main Referees Committee has also told all officials to remain focused and maintain high standards during the next stage of the season. It said their commitment would help ensure Egyptian refereeing makes a positive impression in the upcoming competitions.

The Premier League will resume after the international break, when Egypt face Malawi in the third and fourth rounds of qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations 2027.

Pyramids currently lead the league table with 24 points. Al Ahly are second on 20 points, while Zamalek are third, one point behind them.