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FIFA Names 52 Referees for 2026 World Cup, With Zwayer as Germany's Only On-Field Pick

FIFA will stage a 10-day seminar in Miami for officials with video crews based in Dallas.

Overview

  • FIFA’s roster released Thursday lists 52 on-field referees for a 104-match World Cup and confirms Felix Zwayer as the sole German referee.
  • Zwayer’s crew includes German assistants Robert Kempter and Christian Dietz, with Bastian Dankert appointed as the only German video assistant referee.
  • Daniel Siebert, who officiated at the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2024, was not selected for this tournament.
  • IFAB updates will apply at the event, including broader VAR checks for corners and second yellow cards and a five-second count on throw-ins and goal kicks.
  • Reports differ on female representation, with some outlets naming only Mexico’s Katia Garcia on-field while FIFA statements reference six women in the officiating group.