The Saudi refereeing team begins its preparations for the 2026 World Cup in America
In a historic step reflecting the great development that Saudi football is witnessing, the Saudi refereeing team selected to participate in managing the matches of the 2026 World Cup is heading to the United States of America today, Sunday. The team includes an elite group of distinguished referees, namely referee Khalid Al-Turais, assistant referee Mohammed Al-Abkari, and video assistant referee (VAR) Abdullah Al-Shehri, to engage in an intensive preparation program prior to the start of the world's biggest football event, which will be held jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Saudi referees return to the global stage
The selection of this refereeing team marks a significant milestone for Saudi Arabian refereeing, bringing Saudi Arabia's whistle back to the World Cup finals for the first time since the 2010 South Africa tournament, which featured referee Khalil Jalal. This selection is a culmination of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation's efforts to develop the refereeing system and raise the level of local referees by providing top-tier training and development programs. The chosen team has distinguished itself with its outstanding performances in numerous continental and international tournaments, earning the trust of FIFA to be among the elite referees at the upcoming World Cup.
A comprehensive preparatory program: What awaits the Saudi refereeing team?
Referees Khaled Al-Turais and Mohammed Al-Abkari are scheduled to undergo a rigorous 10-day training program in Miami, the headquarters for referees and assistant referees at the 2026 World Cup. The program will include advanced theoretical lectures on the latest amendments to the Laws of the Game, intensive video analysis sessions, high-level physical conditioning training, and practical on-field exercises to ensure peak physical and mental readiness. Meanwhile, referee Abdullah Al-Shehri will travel to Dallas, home to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) headquarters, to participate in specialized workshops focused on standardizing the use of the technology and ensuring the accuracy of crucial decisions. This comprehensive program aims to refine the skills of the Saudi refereeing team and prepare them to handle the pressures of international matches.
An impact that goes beyond the green rectangle
The significance of this participation extends beyond the purely sporting aspect, serving as an inspiration for future generations of referees in the Kingdom and the wider Arab region. The presence of a Saudi refereeing team at the world's biggest football tournament enhances the reputation of Saudi sports on the international stage and underscores the national talent capable of competing and excelling in various fields. Furthermore, a successful World Cup match, which will feature 48 teams for the first time, will reflect the remarkable progress of Saudi Arabia's sporting development, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030 for the advancement of the sports sector.
