Football’s global governing body has introduced new measures to address visa complications affecting several referees selected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as preparations intensify ahead of the tournament this summer.
The organisation said it had launched a coordinated process aimed at ensuring all match officials complete the necessary administrative requirements in time, following delays that have particularly affected referees from African and Arab countries.
With the competition drawing closer, concerns had grown over whether some officials would be able to finalise travel documentation in time. FIFA’s latest intervention is intended to streamline the process and avoid disruption to tournament planning.
Under the new system, referees have been instructed to submit their documents directly to the organisation’s Secretary-General. Each official will also be issued a unique identification code, pre-arranged with authorities in the host country, which must be attached to their visa applications. FIFA believes the move will simplify procedures and accelerate approvals.
The governing body has also confirmed the final list of referees for the tournament, which includes a notable contingent from Morocco. Jalal Jayed has been selected as a match referee, while Zakaria Brinsi and Mustapha Akkarkad will serve as assistant referees. Hamza El Fariq has been named in a video assistant referee role.
Their selection reflects Morocco’s increasing prominence in international officiating, with officials from the country gaining recognition on the global stage in recent years.
Alongside administrative measures, FIFA has introduced restrictions on referees’ professional activities in the lead-up to the tournament. Officials appointed to the World Cup will not be permitted to oversee friendly matches involving any of the participating national teams in the coming weeks.
The rule is designed to eliminate potential conflicts of interest and ensure neutrality as referees prepare for the competition. Maintaining impartiality is seen as critical to preserving confidence in officiating decisions during the tournament.
However, referees will still be allowed to officiate matches in domestic competitions or foreign leagues. FIFA has said that any such engagements must be reported in advance, with officials required to provide details including the date and location of each fixture.
This approach is intended to strike a balance between transparency and maintaining referees’ physical readiness. By continuing to work in competitive matches, officials can sustain match fitness while remaining under FIFA’s oversight.
The measures form part of a broader effort by FIFA to reinforce standards of professionalism and integrity among match officials. By tightening administrative processes and limiting exposure to competing teams, the organisation aims to safeguard the credibility of refereeing at one of football’s most high-profile events.
For the referees themselves, the coming weeks are expected to be decisive. As they complete visa formalities, they must also maintain peak physical condition and avoid situations that could call their impartiality into question.
FIFA’s actions underline the importance it places on ensuring that all logistical and ethical considerations are addressed well before the tournament begins.
