News ID: 516

Date: 09 August 2025 - 20:57

Mehdi Taj:

Referees Must Stand Firm Against Racist Chants

During a pre-season seminar for referees ahead of the 2025–26 Persian Gulf Pro League, Mehdi Taj, President of the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), addressed several key issues:

On Referee Independence

Taj emphasized that he has never interfered in referee appointments.

He stated:

“Not once have I called the Referees Committee to say who should officiate a match. Refereeing must be based on merit, not friendship or influence.”

On Fair Distribution

Referee selection is not based on geography or quotas.

Taj explained:

“If Tehran has 16 million people and more qualified referees, so be it. Refereeing isn’t land distribution it’s about competence.”

On Stadium Misconduct

One of the main causes of disorder in stadiums is refereeing mistakes, which trigger reactions from players, coaches, and fans.

These mistakes lead to disciplinary cases and media controversies.

New Rule Against Racist Chants

Taj announced a new regulation:

“If a referee hears racist slogans, they are authorized to blow the whistle three times and end the match immediately.”

This aligns with FIFA’s anti-racism protocols, and Iran has pledged full compliance.

Taj added:

“Once this is enforced even once, fans will stop using such chants.”

On Referee Conduct

Referees are not allowed to give interviews. Only the Referees Committee may speak on officiating matters.

Taj also separated match supervision from event organization to ensure transparency.