Concerns Raised over Saudi Arabian Referee performance
Table of Contents
Published December 30, 2025, at 16:50:23
Criticism Despite Investment
Despite significant investment and support for Saudi Arabian referees, current performance levels remain a concern, according to arbitration expert Muhammad Fouda. Fouda stated that while resources are available, the results are not yet meeting expectations.
This assessment comes amid broader scrutiny of refereeing decisions in Saudi football. The focus on advancement is crucial for maintaining the integrity and quality of the league.
Need for Future Development
Fouda emphasized the importance of prioritizing the development of future generations of referees to ensure long-term improvement in officiating standards. Investing in training and mentorship programs is seen as vital for raising the overall level of arbitration.
Loss of Responsibility and Impact of Income
Sports critic Khaled Al-Saud echoed these concerns,criticizing the performance of some Saudi referees and suggesting a decline in their sense of responsibility and on-field presence. Al-Saud further noted that high referee salaries do not necessarily correlate with improved performance, and that existing support structures have not yet eliminated significant errors in matches.
