Ivorian FIFA referees receive badges and insignia for 2025/2026 season

The Ivorian Football Federation has officially honoured a group of referees who will represent the country on the international stage during the 2025/2026 season.

A total of 24 match officials received prestigious distinctions during a ceremony held on March 11. The group includes 19 football referees, three futsal referees, and two beach soccer referees, all of whom were presented with their official badges and pins confirming their status as international referees under FIFA.

The event marked an important moment for Ivorian refereeing, as the badges symbolise the officials’ recognition at the global level and their eligibility to officiate in international competitions. By receiving the FIFA insignia, the referees are entrusted with representing Ivorian football in matches organised by continental and global governing bodies.

Officials from the Ivorian Football Federation emphasised that the ceremony was not only about awarding distinctions but also about recognising the dedication, professionalism, and hard work that these referees have shown throughout their careers. Their elevation to the international list reflects years of commitment to maintaining high officiating standards both domestically and abroad.

The federation also highlighted its ongoing efforts to promote excellence among referees, stressing that the recognition reinforces the governing body’s determination to strengthen the quality and reputation of Ivorian officiating. Through training programmes and development initiatives, the federation aims to ensure that referees from Côte d’Ivoire continue to perform at the highest levels of the sport.

For the selected officials, the badges represent both honour and responsibility. Being part of the FIFA international referees list means they may be appointed to officiate in major competitions across Africa and beyond, including tournaments organised by Confederation of African Football and other international football bodies.

The recognition also highlights FIFA’s confidence in the ability and professionalism of these referees, who are now expected to represent Ivorian officiating with integrity, competence, and pride on the continental and global stage.

As they prepare for assignments in the coming season, the newly recognised referees will carry the responsibility of upholding the standards of fair play and professionalism while showcasing the growing quality of refereeing in Côte d’Ivoire.