Jérôme Nzolo Announces Retirement from Refereeing After Distinguished Career
Jérôme Nzolo, the first black referee in Belgium’s top football division, has decided to retire from officiating. The Belgian Football Union (URBSFA) confirmed the news on Thursday, with Frank De Bleeckere, the Elite & Talent Referee Manager at URBSFA, expressing gratitude for Nzolo’s contributions.
“I would like to personally thank Jérôme for the many matches he has officiated in Belgium and abroad. I respect his decision and wish him every success in his future endeavors,” said De Bleeckere.
Nzolo’s retirement had been expected in recent months after he failed three times in his fitness tests to officiate in the Belgian Pro League. A fourth attempt was scheduled for Thursday, but the 40-year-old ultimately chose to end his career.
Having started his refereeing journey in Belgium in 2000, Nzolo became a prominent figure in the country’s football scene. He was voted Belgian Referee of the Year four times, in 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2013, marking him as one of the country’s most respected referees. His decision to retire brings an end to a remarkable career that has paved the way for future generations of referees in Belgium.
