FIFA has officially announced the list of Malawian referees approved to officiate international matches during the 2026 calendar year, with the roster featuring several notable changes.
The approved list comprises 17 officials: six centre referees, nine assistant referees, and two beach soccer referees. Emily Chathamthumba has been added to the panel following Bernadetta Kuyimbira’s retirement, while Rose Zimba makes her return to the FIFA International Referees List. Eness Gumbo continues as Malawi’s sole Video Assistant Referee (VAR) for 2026.
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In beach soccer, Mathews Ngwira and Solomon Siliwonde have secured their places, maintaining Malawi’s representation in the discipline.
FIFA regulations require Member Associations to submit annual nominations for new referees or renewals for existing officials. The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) Referees Committee oversees this process, ensuring all nominees meet FIFA’s stringent eligibility criteria, including comprehensive fitness and medical assessments.
After internal evaluations, nominations are forwarded to FIFA for final approval. The world football governing body retains the authority to reject any candidate who fails to meet its standards
Referees who receive FIFA approval are authorized to officiate international matches and wear the prestigious FIFA badge from January through December 2026. However, continued inclusion on the list depends on ongoing performance assessments conducted throughout the year. The FIFA badge remains FIFA property for the duration of the calendar year.
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