Qatar FA vice president visits elite referees’ camp ahead of new season

DOHA: Qatar Football Association (QFA) Vice President Sheikh Tamim bin Mohammed Al Thani visited the national elite referees’ training camp on Sunday to review preparations for the 2026-27 football season.

The visit to the camp at the InterContinental Doha Hotel came as the QFA steps up efforts to ensure its officials are technically and physically prepared for the start of domestic competitions.

Sheikh Tamim was welcomed by Referees Committee Chairman Jassim Al-Hail, Vice Chairman Hani Taleb Ballan, other committee members and the referees taking part in the camp.

The camp is a key part of the QFA’s annual preparation programme and aims to ensure officials are ready for the demands of the new season.

Addressing the referees, Sheikh Tamim praised the development of Qatar’s refereeing system and the work of the Referees Committee.

He said Qatari officials had established a strong reputation at regional, Asian and international levels, while encouraging them to maintain their progress.

“Qatari refereeing is constantly developing, as everyone can attest, and has gained a prominent position at the regional, Asian and international levels,” Sheikh Tamim said.

“Last season the level was good, and we wish all referees success in the new season.”

The QFA has intensified its preparations for the upcoming campaign, with the elite referees’ camp combining technical sessions, match analysis and physical training ahead of the start of official competition.