The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) is concluding a series of workshops aimed at preparing its new panel of Match Commissioners for the 2026–2028 cycle, as part of efforts to strengthen standards and professionalism across African football competitions.
The final session of the programme is scheduled to take place from 22 to 23 April at the headquarters of the Egyptian Football Association in 6th of October City. It marks the culmination of a continent-wide training initiative designed to enhance capacity and improve the delivery of CAF competitions.
More than 200 Match Commissioners have been selected for the new cycle, with each of CAF’s member associations nominating four officials.
Two men and two women, in a move aimed at promoting inclusivity and gender balance. Participants were organised into groups based on geographic regions and language, a structure intended to facilitate more effective communication and learning during the sessions.
The workshops have focused on equipping officials with the necessary operational and regulatory knowledge required for their roles. Key areas of training include match organisation, ensuring compliance with CAF rules, and strengthening coordination with stadium authorities and other stakeholders involved in matchday operations.
Match Commissioners play a central role in CAF competitions, acting as the governing body’s representatives at fixtures. Their responsibilities include overseeing match organisation to ensure that all regulations are adhered to, as well as managing logistical elements such as team arrivals, security arrangements, media coordination, and the implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) systems.
In addition, they are tasked with supporting referees and technical staff throughout matches, while also compiling detailed post-match reports. These reports are used by CAF to assess operations and identify areas for improvement in future competitions.
CAF’s latest initiative reflects a broader push to enhance professionalism, integrity, and efficiency in the organisation of football across the continent. By investing in the training and development of Match Commissioners, the organisation aims to ensure that its competitions are delivered to consistent and high standards.
The programme also underscores CAF’s commitment to inclusivity within football administration, with the structured nomination process ensuring balanced representation across gender lines and member associations.
As the final workshop gets under way in Egypt, attention will turn to how the newly trained Match Commissioners apply their knowledge in upcoming competitions, with CAF expecting improved coordination and operational standards across its tournaments.
