News ID: 478

Date: 05 August 2025 - 21:34

Referee Committee Announces New Regulations for 2025–26 Season

Esmaeil Safiri, Acting Head of the Referees Committee, outlines key decisions for referee and observer participation in the 25th season of the Persian Gulf Pro League.

Key Decisions and Policies

Pre-Season Fitness Tests:
All referees and assistant referees must pass a physical fitness test before the season begins. No additional testing will be conducted during the season.

Mid-Season Evaluation:
A second fitness test will be held at mid-season. Referees who fail either test will be demoted one tier and lose eligibility to officiate in the top league.

Age Limit for New Referees:

No age limit for returning referees with prior Premier League experience

Maximum age of 37 for first-time referees, calculated from the start of pre-season training

Performance-Based Demotion:
Referees and assistants who receive an average score below 8 out of 10 in the first half of the season will be demoted at the end of the season.

Mandatory Pre-Season Training:
Attendance at pre-season training is compulsory. Sessions will follow international standards with no leniency.

Observer Selection Criteria:
Both male and female referee observers have been appointed. Those who fail to attend training or pass evaluations will not be assigned to matches.

Committee’s Vision

Safiri emphasized the federation’s commitment to improving officiating quality:

“Enhancing referee knowledge and physical preparedness is a top priority as we approach the 25th season. Our goal is to ensure higher-quality officiating across all competitions.”