FIFA announced the selection of a Saudi refereeing team to officiate matches in the 2026 World Cup, in a move that reflects growing international confidence.

The crew includes referee Khalid Al-Turais, assistant Mohammed Al-Abkari, along with video assistant referee Abdullah Al-Shahri, among the list of referees selected for the World Cup.

The tournament will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 18, with the participation of elite referees from around the world.

The selection of Saudi referees came after their outstanding performances in various tournaments, both at the continental and international levels, during the past period.

The team stood out remarkably in the FIFA U-20 World Cup held in Chile, which contributed to enhancing their chances of participating in the major event.

Yasser bin Hassan Al-Misehal, President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, extended his congratulations to the referees, wishing them success in representing the Kingdom.

Al-Misshal confirmed that this selection reflects the advanced status achieved by Saudi refereeing and the great confidence it enjoys from the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA).