Jilali Gharib's whistle falls silent forever

The Moroccan football community is mourning the loss of former international referee Jilali Gharib, who passed away on Sunday. Gharib is remembered as one of the most prominent figures in Moroccan refereeing history.

Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), extended his deepest condolences to Gharib's family and the national football community. The FRMF issued a statement acknowledging Gharib's significant contributions to Moroccan refereeing, highlighting his historic achievement as the first Moroccan referee to participate in a World Cup.

Gharib served as an assistant referee at the 1994 FIFA World Cup held in the United States. This milestone paved the way for subsequent generations of Moroccan referees to achieve international recognition and success. His World Cup experience included officiating in matches during the tournament, notably being part of the officiating team for the third-place playoff between Sweden and Bulgaria on July 16, 1994, which Sweden won 4-0.

Beyond the World Cup, Gharib's international career extended to officiating matches in the Asia Cup and at the Olympic Games. His involvement in these major tournaments underscored Morocco's growing presence and influence in global football competitions.

“

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation extends its deepest condolences and sincerest sympathies to the family of Jilali Gharib and to the family of national football.