Referees training commences as federation adopts promotion/relegation of match officials

Seventy referees are set to undergo the mandatory Physical Endurance Test (PET) and training from Monday through Friday as preparations intensify for the 2025/2026 league season, which kicks off later in September.

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The annual PET is a requirement before the start of every campaign, aimed at ensuring that only the most physically fit and technically competent referees handle matches in the FKF Premier League and FKF Women’s Premier League.

The exercise, which is being held at the Kasarani Annex, will see 70 referees assessed, with 60 of them set to be selected for top-tier assignments in men’s and women’s football.

“We want the best referees officiating our leagues, and I can assure you this will be a thorough exercise. If we are to elevate the game, then we must have the right people handling matches,” said FKF Referees Committee chairman and Western Region NEC member Caleb Amwayi.

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Amwayi explained that the federation deliberately invited a smaller group this year to ensure a more detailed evaluation of each official.

“In the past, we invited up to 200 referees, which made it difficult to assess everyone thoroughly in a short period. Also, with such a large pool, some referees could go for months without officiating, which affected their sharpness.

This time, we want a smaller, highly engaged group that remains fit and consistent in terms of standards,” he noted.

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He further disclosed that the federation will adopt a promotion and relegation system for referees based on performance.

“We cannot afford poor officiating in our leagues. If a referee falls below the required standard, we will demote them to a level where they can perform better, while those who excel will be promoted to handle top-tier matches. There will be no sacred cows this season,” he emphasised.

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The week-long program will include physical assessments, classroom sessions, and practical fieldwork to gauge the referees’ overall competence.

“On Monday, we start with PET, after which they will undergo classroom training to sharpen their knowledge, including real-life case studies of officiating scenarios.

We will also conduct practical sessions on the pitch to ensure we have well-rounded referees ready for the season,” Amwayi concluded.

The FKF Premier League will commence on 20th September.

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