Sports
Sabah Qasim, a member of the Iraqi Football Federation, confirmed that the contract with Portuguese refereeing expert Pereira is part of a comprehensive plan to elevate the technical and physical levels of Iraqi referees, enhancing their match management skills with a particular focus on Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology. Qasim explained that the aim is to benefit from advanced European, especially Portuguese, refereeing experiences. The expert will oversee the selection of referees for matches and tournaments, monitor league competitions, and organize training courses and internal camps. He added that the development program includes not only theoretical lectures and analysis of refereeing cases but also physical training and direct supervision of referees’ exercises, along with specialized lectures on VAR technology to strengthen expertise and address weaknesses. Pereira will hold regular meetings with the referees committee and Iraqi referees to monitor their performance and levels, preparing for the selection of refereeing teams for matches and tournaments. The federation has also given young referees more opportunities to officiate matches since the start of the current season. Regarding referees’ dues, Qasim affirmed the federation’s ongoing support by paying professional referees’ fees and providing necessary equipment, with plans to settle dues for Premier League and futsal referees, as well as addressing some previous debts in the upcoming phase. The agreement with the Portuguese expert lasts six months until the end of the season, with a comprehensive evaluation planned to assess the benefits and the possibility of continuation. He confirmed that Iraqi referees continue to represent the country in Asian, Gulf, and international tournaments, with the federation aiming to develop their capabilities and prepare qualified referees for upcoming World Cup finals.
