Twenty three Ghanaian match officials have been approved to officiate international football competitions in 2026 after receiving official badges from FIFA. The development represents another major boost for Ghana’s football officiating standards and highlights the country’s growing influence in global refereeing.
The list features a balanced mix of experienced officials and emerging talents across different categories. It includes ten centre referees, ten assistant referees, one futsal referee, one beach soccer referee, and one video assistant referee. This wide representation reflects Ghana’s steady progress in producing referees capable of meeting international requirements.
Leading the group is Daniel Nii Laryea, who continues to earn recognition for his consistency and professionalism. He has been approved to serve both as a centre referee and as a video assistant referee, underlining his versatility and experience at the highest level of officiating.
The referees were nominated by the Ghana Football Association following comprehensive assessments. These included physical fitness tests, medical evaluations, and technical reviews to ensure all nominees meet the strict standards set by FIFA. Only officials who satisfy these requirements are included on the international list.
Earning a FIFA badge allows referees to officiate continental and global competitions throughout the calendar year. It also places them under continuous performance monitoring, as future selections depend on discipline, fitness, and consistency in decision making.
The recognition of twenty three officials for 2026 is seen as a significant endorsement of Ghana’s refereeing development programs. It also reinforces the country’s commitment to integrity, professionalism, and excellence in football officiating at both local and international levels.
