FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Referees Gear Up for Historic Tournament

The FIFA Referees Committee has officially announced the match officials for the landmark FIFA Club World Cup 2025, set to take place from June 14 to July 13 across 12 stadiums in 11 host cities in the United States. A total of 117 match officials, including 35 referees, 58 assistant referees, and 24 video match officials from 41 member associations, have been selected to oversee the tournament.  

 

Pierluigi Collina, Chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee, emphasized the significance of this appointment, stating that it is a privilege for the selected officials to be part of the first edition of the expanded Club World Cup. He highlighted the high standards set by previous FIFA tournaments and expressed confidence that the referees will contribute to the success of this historic competition.  

 

In a groundbreaking move, FIFA will introduce body cameras for referees at the tournament, providing fans with an unprecedented view of on-field decisions. The footage will be made available via DAZN, the exclusive global broadcaster of the event. Additionally, new rules aimed at reducing time-wasting by goalkeepers will be implemented, with referees awarding a corner kick to the opposing team if a goalkeeper holds the ball for more than eight seconds.  

 

The tournament will feature 32 teams from all six FIFA confederations, making it the largest Club World Cup to date. With match officials undergoing rigorous training and preparation, FIFA aims to ensure consistency and fairness in officiating throughout the competition.  

 

Sources: FIFA, UNI India, MSN Sports