New era in Cyprus refereeing: Players can also serve as referees

The Cyprus Football Association (CFA) is introducing a groundbreaking initiative designed to elevate refereeing standards across the island and cultivate a new generation of officials. This program will allow young, non-professional male and female footballers to train and serve as referees or assistant referees under specific conditions.

Eligibility is limited to individuals under 23 years old who do not possess an active player's license or contract with top-tier men's or women's teams. Crucially, these player-referees will only officiate in competitions where they are not actively playing, ensuring impartiality and credibility in matches.

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The Executive Board of the CFA approved a proposal from the Refereeing Committee according to which, active players can simultaneously be registered in the referees' registry and officiate matches, under specific conditions and regulations.

The CFA's Executive Board approved the proposal from the Refereeing Committee, enabling active players to simultaneously register in the referees' registry and officiate matches. This decision is part of a broader effort by the CFA to strengthen and modernize Cypriot refereeing, attracting individuals passionate about football who wish to remain involved in the sport through a significant new role.

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This decision is part of the CFA's effort to strengthen and upgrade Cypriot refereeing, as well as to attract new people who love football and wish to remain active in the field, taking on a new and particularly important role.