Jalal Jayed Returns Moroccan Refereeing to World Cup After 24-Year Absence

T.E (Elbotola)

09 April 2026at19:58

FIFA announced on Thursday the list of referees who will officiate matches at the "America 2026" World Cup finals. The list notably includes Moroccan international referee Jalal Jayed among the on-field officials.

This appointment marks the return of Moroccan refereeing to the global stage, ending a 24-year absence since the last participation of a Moroccan referee in the finals. That was in the 2002 edition when international referee Mohamed El Kazzaz officiated the match between Spain and Slovenia at the World Cup in South Korea and Japan.

Moroccan representation in the previous 2022 World Cup was limited to international referee Redouane Jayed, who served as a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) official, with no Moroccan referees included in the on-field list.

Jalal Jayed's selection among the World Cup referees is a culmination of his distinguished refereeing career in recent years, during which he has notably excelled at the continental level by officiating several important matches in African competitions.

Q&A

What significant announcement did FIFA make regarding Moroccan refereeing?

FIFA announced the inclusion of Moroccan international referee Jalal Jayed among the on-field officials for the "America 2026" World Cup finals. This selection marks a historic return for Moroccan refereeing to the global stage after a long period.

How long has it been since a Moroccan referee officiated an on-field World Cup match?

A Moroccan referee has not officiated an on-field World Cup match for over two decades, with Jalal Jayed's appointment ending this significant drought. The last time a Moroccan referee participated in the finals was during the 2002 edition.

What led to Jalal Jayed's selection for the 2026 World Cup?

Jalal Jayed's selection for the World Cup is a direct result of his distinguished refereeing career and consistent excellence in recent years. He has notably excelled by officiating several important matches in major African competitions.

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FIFA World Cup

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