Concacaf President and FIFA Vice President Victor Montagliani and Concacaf Director of Refereeing Nicola Rizzoli recently held a virtual meeting with the Confederation’s match officials selected to the FIFA World Cup 2026, recognizing their historic achievement and applauding the commitment, professionalism, and excellence that earned them a place on football’s biggest stage.
The meeting followed FIFA’s announcement confirming a record 29 Concacaf match officials selected for the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The appointment marks the Confederation’s largest-ever representation at a FIFA World Cup, surpassing the 19 officials selected for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and further highlighting the continued growth and development of refereeing across the region.
Addressing the officials during the gathering, Montagliani praised the group for the impact their appointments have on the global perception of Concacaf and for the responsibility they carry in representing the Confederation at the world’s premier sporting event.
“Your presence at the biggest sporting event in the world gives credibility to our Confederation, to the growth of our Confederation, and to the global influence of Concacaf,” said Montagliani.
“You represent more than just yourselves. You represent your countries, your families, your communities, and our entire Concacaf football family. For that, I want to congratulate each one of you on this extraordinary achievement.”
Montagliani also highlighted the significance of Concacaf sending a record number of officials to the tournament, noting that the achievement reflects both the individual dedication of the selected officials and the Confederation’s continued investment in refereeing development.
“We as a Confederation will be sending 29 officials, up from 19 in 2022. That demonstrates the growth of this Confederation and the progress that has been made in our refereeing, while also reflecting your individual talent and commitment,” he said.
The Concacaf President recognized several additional milestones that reflect the leadership example these officials continue to set across the region, including the appointment of six women as World Cup officials.
“Make no mistake, you’re not just referees or officials, you are leaders, and people across our region see you as leaders,” said Montagliani.
Among the milestones recognized during the meeting was Oshane Nation becoming the first Caribbean referee appointed to a FIFA World Cup since 2002, while Canadian referee Drew Fischer and his crew became the first-ever Canadian referee team selected for the tournament.
Montagliani also recognized the continued excellence of veteran officials César Ramos, Juan Carlos Mora, and Alberto Morín, with Morín set to participate in his fourth FIFA World Cup.
Rizzoli echoed Montagliani’s sentiments during the meeting, commending the selected officials for their professionalism, character, and preparation ahead of the tournament.
“We are very pleased to have all of you here and to congratulate each of you on your appointment to the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Canada, Mexico, and the United States,” said Rizzoli.
“The representation we have at this World Cup is significant, but above all, it is a very professional group with strong potential. We are very proud of each one of you.”
Rizzoli also reaffirmed Concacaf’s commitment to supporting the officials throughout their preparations for the tournament this summer.
“We are here to support you and help put you in the best possible condition to perform on the field every single moment,” he said. “We trust in hard work, preparation, and professionalism, and we are excited to continue this journey together.”
Montagliani concluded the meeting by reminding the officials that, while they will wear the FIFA badge at the World Cup, they will also carry the pride and support of the entire Concacaf region with them.
“When you go to the World Cup, you may wear a FIFA badge, but in your heart, make sure you carry Concacaf with you as well,” said Montagliani. “We are proud of you, we believe in you, and we know you will represent our Confederation with great professionalism and honor.”
FIFA World Cup 2026 will take place across Canada, Mexico, and the United States from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
