A training camp for Egyptian referees focusing on Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology commenced on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, with 35 referees from the Egyptian Premier League in attendance. The camp, set to conclude on the following Tuesday, features theoretical lectures and practical training sessions using simulation devices. This initiative is part of the Egyptian Football Association's efforts to upgrade the country's refereeing standards and improve VAR performance.
Dr. Mostafa Azzam, General Secretary of the Egyptian Football Association, welcomed international lecturer Paolo Valeri from Italy, along with Egyptian international lecturers and participating referees. He emphasized the significance of such courses in enhancing Egypt's refereeing system and boosting referees' efficiency. Azzam expressed his hopes for the participants to benefit from the expertise shared during the camp.
Paolo Valeri, the international lecturer from Italy, expressed his delight in being in Egypt, praising the country's rich refereeing history and its notable referees who have made an impact on the international stage, including those who officiated in the 2026 World Cup. Valeri stressed the importance of continuous training and leveraging international experiences to develop VAR systems.
Essam Abdelfattah, head of the Referees Committee, highlighted the necessity of ongoing development for VAR referees. He emphasized the importance of both theoretical and practical training to enhance coordination between on-field referees and VAR officials, ultimately elevating Egypt's refereeing standards.
The training camp includes a range of activities designed to improve referees' skills in VAR technology. Participants will engage in simulated game scenarios to practice making accurate decisions using VAR tools. This hands-on approach aims to prepare referees for real-game situations, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle the demands of VAR.
The Egyptian Football Association has been proactive in enhancing its refereeing capabilities, recognizing the critical role that VAR plays in modern football. By investing in referee development, the association seeks to improve the accuracy and fairness of matches, ultimately enhancing the overall football experience for players and fans alike.
The VAR development camp is a key component of the Egyptian Football Association's strategy to upgrade its refereeing infrastructure. With the support of international experts and a focus on practical training, Egyptian referees are poised to improve their skills and contribute to a more efficient and fair refereeing system.
Key points
- The camp aims to improve VAR referees' skills through theoretical and practical training.
- Egyptian Football Association seeks to enhance refereeing standards and fairness in matches.
- International lecturer Paolo Valeri emphasizes continuous training and leveraging international experiences.
