Omani referee Ahmed Al-Kaf announces retirement

Omani international referee Ahmed Abu Bakr Al-Kaf has officially announced his retirement from officiating today, Wednesday, after a distinguished career that lasted nearly 20 years, during which he participated in numerous local, continental, and international tournaments.

The CAF stated in a retirement announcement that the profession they loved so much has seen many difficulties, challenges, and sacrifices, starting from preparation and physical training to the constant travel throughout their career, confirming that the praises and criticisms were part of the nature of football.

Kaf is considered one of the most prominent Asian referees in recent years, having officiated three finals in the AFC Champions League during the 2016, 2018, and 2022 editions, becoming the first Arab referee to officiate three finals in the history of the tournament.

The Omani referee has participated in the AFC Champions League for 10 consecutive seasons, alongside his presence in the AFC Asian Cup and the AFC U-23 Cup, concluding a refereeing career that spanned two decades filled with significant milestones.