Top 10 African Referees in 2025

Africa’s refereeing standards have surged in recent years, driven by improved CAF training programs, technology adoption (VAR, GLT), and more international exposure.

In 2025, over 20 referees from Africa are on the FIFA Elite Panel, with several officiating in major continental and global tournaments.

Countries like Algeria, South Africa, Morocco, Ethiopia, and Zambia have emerged as key producers of world-class officials.

Deep Dive!!

Nairobi, Kenya-Refereeing in Africa has moved far beyond the days when continental officials were seldom seen in top-tier FIFA assignments. Today, African referees are not only present but are leading matches at the AFCON, FIFA U-20 and U-17 World Cups, the CAF Champions League, and even in the knockout stages of the FIFA Men’s and Women’s World Cups.

Behind this success are intensive CAF referee development camps, fitness assessments matching UEFA standards, and increased collaboration with top leagues across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

The 2025 landscape also reflects a blend of veterans with World Cup experience and emerging stars who have mastered the use of VAR, strong communication, and advanced match psychology.

In this latest list, we take a closer look at the Top 10 African referees in 2025, their achievements, and what sets them apart.

10. Abongile Tom – South Africa

Known for his calm authority and exceptional positioning, Tom has been one of South Africa’s top exports in refereeing. In 2025, he took charge of key CAF Champions League knockout games and was a VAR official for the AFCON semi-finals. His precise foul recognition and player communication have made him a rising name on the FIFA list.

9. Jean-Jacques Ndala – DR Congo

With a reputation for firm but fair officiating, Ndala has been in high demand for CAF interclub finals. In 2025, he handled high-pressure derby matches in the African Football League and was selected for FIFA Club World Cup duties. His endurance and consistency under pressure are his standout traits.

8. Salima Mukansanga – Rwanda

A trailblazer for women in African refereeing, Mukansanga remains a global icon. After officiating at the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Olympic Games, she continues to break barriers in 2025 by being the first woman to referee a CAF Confederation Cup final. Her composure, clear communication, and tactical awareness inspire a new generation of female referees.

7. Mahmood Ismail – Sudan

Ismail’s authoritative presence and deep understanding of the game have kept him at the top in North-East Africa. In 2025, he managed multiple high-intensity AFCON group-stage matches and CAF Super Cup assignments. His precise advantage play and minimal error rate have won him respect from both CAF and FIFA.

6. Victor Gomes – South Africa

Gomes, already a legend in African refereeing circles, continued to demonstrate why he is trusted with high-profile matches. In 2025, he was appointed to officiate the AFCON final for the second time in his career, a rare honor. His fearless decision-making and ability to defuse volatile situations remain unmatched.

5. Mustapha Ghorbal – Algeria

Arguably one of Africa’s most technically sound referees, Ghorbal officiated at the FIFA World Cup and the Olympics before 2025. This year, he has handled CAF Champions League finals and top-tier FIFA men’s tournaments. His match control, reading of the game, and swift VAR integration make him a top CAF asset.

4. Bamlak Tessema – Ethiopia

A senior figure in African refereeing, Tessema is known for his near-perfect disciplinary control and fitness. In 2025, he led several high-stakes AFCON knockout matches and represented Africa in the FIFA U-20 World Cup final. His consistent performances have kept him in FIFA’s elite group for over a decade.

3. Redouane Jiyed – Morocco

Jiyed has built a solid reputation in both CAF and FIFA tournaments, noted for his balanced officiating style and quick decision-making. In 2025, he officiated the CAF Champions League final and was a key referee at the FIFA Club World Cup. His ability to manage heated games with minimal controversy puts him among Africa’s finest.

2. Janny Sikazwe – Zambia

A household name in African football, Sikazwe has officiated at multiple FIFA World Cups and AFCON finals. In 2025, he maintained his high standards, refereeing crucial AFCON and World Cup qualifier matches. His resilience, experience, and calm under scrutiny cement his place as one of the best.

1. Papa Bakary Gassama – Gambia

Gassama remains Africa’s most decorated referee in 2025, with a career spanning AFCON finals, FIFA World Cups, and the Olympics. This year, he took charge of key AFCON matches and high-profile World Cup qualifiers. Known for his athleticism, unshakable confidence, and ability to command respect, Gassama continues to set the benchmark for African refereeing excellence.