The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) referees committee has approved the preparation program for the 2027 Asian Cup, which Saudi Arabia will host from January 7 to February 5 with 24 national teams participating.
According to SPA, the key stages for selecting and preparing referees for the 19th edition of the continental tournament were defined during the committee’s fourth meeting, chaired by Hani Taleb Ballan.
The first phase begins in September with the announcement of the selected referees. Selection criteria include continuous performance evaluations from 2023 to 2026, physical condition, medical exams, and psychological aspects to determine suitability for roles as central referees, assistant referees, or video assistant referees (VAR).
The meeting also confirmed a seminar for Asian Cup referees in November, followed by a preparatory camp for the competition’s referees during the week before the opening match.
When will the 2027 Asian Cup take place and who is hosting? The 2027 Asian Cup will be hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The tournament is scheduled to take place from January 7 to February 5, featuring the participation of 24 national teams.
How will referees be selected for the 19th edition of the tournament? The list of selected referees will be announced in September. Selection is based on strict criteria, including performance evaluations from 2023 to 2026, medical exams, physical condition, and psychological assessments to assign roles as central, assistant, or VAR referees.
What are the scheduled preparation events for the referees? The AFC has confirmed that a seminar for Asian Cup referees will be held in November. Additionally, a preparatory camp for the competition’s referees will be organized during the week preceding the opening match.