FIFA has revealed the list of Ghanaian referees who can officiate international matches in 2026, highlighting Ghana’s strong presence.
The finalized and approved list includes 23 officials: 10 center referees, 10 assistant referees, 1 futsal referee, 1 beach soccer referee, and 1 VAR official. The list is headed by veteran official Daniel Laryea, who will be a Centre Referee and a VAR. The group also welcomes Richard Kwaku, a new assistant referee, and Portia Oppong, who is recognized in Beach Soccer.
FIFA regulations mandate that Member Associations must annually nominate new referees or reappoint current officials. The Referees Committee of the Ghana Football Association oversees this process, confirming that nominees comply with FIFA’s strict eligibility rules, including passing FIFA-approved fitness and medical evaluations.
FIFA receives the nominations for final validation after the internal vetting. The global football body can okay or veto nominees.
The FIFA badge is authorized for FIFA-approved referees to wear from January 2026 until December 2026. Staying on the list each year hinges on performance, and FIFA retains sole ownership of the badge.
The full list of officials approved by FIFA is attached.


