During the classroom sessions, the candidates explored key aspects of elite refereeing, including controlling the narrative through body language, managing dangerous play, decision-making under pressure, as well as honing anticipation and vigilance, and understanding the role of referees as game managers.

A further highlight of the theory-based programme was the in-depth analysis of match incidents from the AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026™, allowing match officials to examine real case studies and sharpen their analytical capabilities.

UEFA Refereeing Development Specialist Diego Lopez, who was in attendance as observer, said: “It is a privilege to join the module as an observer as part of the AFC-UEFA refereeing partnership.

 

"The AFC Referee Academy stands out as a well-structured, focused three-year programme that is building a strong professional community of referees and referee coaches, ensuring they receive the highest level of support throughout their development.”

 

In the following week, the Academy hosted Introductory Module 4 for Batch 7, where the focus was on understanding when to raise one’s profile and enhancing tactical awareness inside the penalty area, with the recently concluded AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ serving as the backdrop for key learnings from match incidents. Meanwhile, both batches also participated in comprehensive practical sessions, including fitness and strength training, penalty kick management, and endurance tests.

Finally, from April 20 to 24, the attention turned to the AFC Futsal Referee Academy, where Introductory Module 4 for Batch 1 got underway with 33 participants.

With futsal continuing to grow rapidly worldwide, the programme provided an excellent platform for participants to enhance their skills through insightful discussions on topics such as positioning and movement in the modern game, as well as the importance of teamwork, while also refining their on-pitch performance by introducing them to Video Support (VS).

 The completion of the futsal module marked the conclusion of this series of programmes undertaken by the AFC Referee Academy, once again underscoring the Confederation’s commitment to upholding the highest officiating standards across all forms of the game.