Renowned Ethiopian referee Bamlak Tessema Weyesa has called time on an illustrious career that spanned more than 20 years.
In a letter addressed to FIFA’s Refereeing Department, the 42-year-old expressed pride in his journey, describing it as an honour to represent his country on the international stage.
“I am writing to formally announce my retirement from international football refereeing, a journey that has been both an honour and a privilege representing Ethiopia on the global stage,” Tessema noted.
Tessema began his refereeing career in Ethiopia in 2003 before earning the prestigious FIFA badge in 2009.
Over the years, he rose to prominence, officiating at major tournaments including the Africa Cup of Nations, the African Nations Championship (CHAN), and notably serving as a fourth official at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
His final international duty came at the 2024 CHAN, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, where he worked as a Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
