We have selected the best referees for 2026 World Cup – FIFA defends decision amid high-profile omissions

World football’s governing body, FIFA, has stood by its selection of match officials for the 2026 World Cup after criticism over several high-profile omissions from the list.

On Thursday, April 9, FIFA announced a pool of officials comprising 52 referees, 88 assistant referees and 30 video match officials drawn from six confederations and 50 member associations.

The selection has sparked debate, particularly due to the exclusion of some well-known names, including Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala, who officiated the Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal—a match that attracted controversy following a 17-minute protest walk-off by Senegal over a penalty decision awarded to the hosts.

Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Laryea and Senegal’s Issa Sy were also left out of the final list.

From Africa, seven match officials were selected: Mustapha Ghorbal (Algeria), Amin Mohamed (Egypt), Pierre Atcho (Gabon), Jalal Jayed (Morocco), Dahane Beida (Mauritania), Tom Abongile (South Africa) and Omar Artan (Somalia).

Defending the selection process, FIFA Referees Committee chairman Pierluigi Collina insisted the chosen group represents the highest standard in world football.

“The selected match officials are the very best in the world,” he said.

“They were part of a wider pool of officials that was identified and monitored over the past three years. They have attended seminars and officiated at FIFA tournaments.

“In addition, their performances in domestic and international matches were regularly assessed.

“The selected officials have received, and will continue to receive, comprehensive support from our fitness coaches and medical staff, including physiotherapists and a mental specialist.”

The 2026 tournament, which will feature an expanded 48-team format and be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, is scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19, 2026.