FIFA has announced the full list of match officials for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, confirming what will be the largest refereeing team in the tournament’s history.

A total of 52 referees, 88 assistant referees and 30 video match officials have been selected from across all six confederations and 50 member associations, following a rigorous evaluation process that spanned more than three years.

The selection was based on FIFA’s “quality first” principle, with officials assessed on their consistency and performances in domestic leagues, international competitions and previous FIFA tournaments.

Pierluigi Collina said the chosen officials represent the highest standard in global football officiating. He noted that candidates were closely monitored over several years, taking part in seminars and major tournaments while undergoing regular performance reviews.

“This will be the biggest World Cup in history,” Collina said, referring to the expanded 48-team format and 104 matches set to be played across three host countries. He added that the officiating team has grown significantly compared to the 2022 tournament in Qatar, reflecting the increased scale of the competition.

Collina also highlighted the continued inclusion of women referees, with six female match officials selected, building on progress made during the previous World Cup.

Officials will undergo final preparations at a training camp in Miami starting on May 31, where they will receive support from fitness coaches, medical staff and match analysts to ensure they are in peak physical and mental condition ahead of the tournament.

Massimo Busacca said preparations began immediately after the conclusion of the 2022 World Cup, with a structured programme of workshops, monitoring and technical development designed to maintain the highest standards.

During the tournament, referees will continue daily training sessions, supported by detailed match analysis and on-field simulations involving local players.

Technology is also set to play a central role, with FIFA confirming the use of goal-line technology, an enhanced version of semi-automated offside systems and connected ball technology.

In a first for the World Cup, fans will also be able to view matches from the referee’s perspective using newly introduced body cameras, enhanced by artificial intelligence to improve video quality.

Following the Miami training camp, video match officials will relocate to Dallas, home of the International Broadcast Centre, while referees and assistant referees will remain in Miami for the duration of the tournament.

FIFA said additional measures aimed at increasing match tempo and reducing time-wasting—approved earlier this year by the International Football Association Board—will also be implemented.

With preparations now entering the final phase, FIFA says it is confident that “Team One” will be ready to meet the demands of what is expected to be a historic and groundbreaking World Cup.

Click here for full list of appointed match officials for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) delivered another dramatic contest on Wednesday, April 8, as Gujarat Titans narrowly defeated Delhi Capitals in a high-scoring encounter in Delhi.

In a match that went down to the final ball, Gujarat held their nerve to secure a thrilling one-run victory. The game featured standout batting performances, including a commanding innings from Delhi’s top order, while Gujarat’s bowlers, led by Rashid Khan, produced crucial breakthroughs at key moments to seal the win.

The result adds important points for Gujarat as the competition intensifies, while Delhi will look to bounce back after falling just short in one of the closest matches of the season so far.

Attention now turns to Thursday’s clash between Kolkata Knight Riders and Lucknow Super Giants.

Kolkata will be aiming to build momentum with a strong all-round performance, while Lucknow will look to capitalise on their balanced squad and secure a key win in the early stages of the tournament. With both teams boasting explosive batting line-ups and quality bowling attacks, fans can expect another competitive and entertaining contest.

Broadcast Information

Cricket fans in Afghanistan can watch all the action live, as Ariana Radio and Television Network (ATN) holds exclusive rights to broadcast the IPL matches.

Games are being aired nationwide on Ariana Television, bringing the excitement of the tournament directly to viewers at home.

Tuesday’s Indian Premier League (IPL) clash between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians ended in frustration after rain forced the match to be called off in Jaipur.

The game was shaping into an intriguing contest, with Rajasthan putting up a strong total in a reduced 11-over match before Mumbai began their chase. However, persistent rain interruptions prevented a result, leaving both teams to share the points.

Rajasthan’s top order looked in control during their innings, capitalizing on the shortened format to post an aggressive score. Mumbai, in response, struggled to build momentum before the weather intervened, ultimately denying fans a full contest.

The result adds a point apiece to both sides but leaves questions around momentum as the tournament begins to intensify.

Match Preview: Wednesday, April 8

Attention now turns to Wednesday’s fixture, where Delhi Capitals take on Gujarat Titans in what promises to be a competitive encounter.

Delhi will be aiming to strengthen their position with a solid all-round performance, while Gujarat, known for their balanced squad, will look to maintain consistency and climb the standings. Key battles between top-order batters and pace attacks are expected to shape the outcome.

Fans in Afghanistan can watch all the IPL action live, with Ariana Television (ATN) holding exclusive broadcasting rights. Viewers are encouraged to follow Ariana Television and Ariana News on social media for the latest updates, match schedules, and breaking coverage throughout the tournament.