Egyptian football fans are eagerly awaiting the start of the new Egyptian Premier League season amid growing attention surrounding the refereeing system, especially since referees’ readiness is considered one of the key factors in ensuring fair and successful matches. ⚽📢 In this context, media personality Ahmed Shobier revealed surprising details from the recent referees’ tests, including a high failure rate in the refereeing law test and an incident that sparked controversy within the Egyptian refereeing system.
Mass Failure in the Refereeing Law Test
Shobier explained that a large percentage of referees failed to pass the test related to the laws of the game, revealing that around 75% of those who took the test did not succeed.
Such a high percentage raises several questions, especially since having a complete understanding of the laws of the game is the foundation on which referees rely when making decisions during matches. 🔥
A referee’s role is not limited to physical fitness or the ability to move around the pitch. Referees also need a precise understanding of the different rules and amendments so they can deal with complex refereeing situations and make the correct decision at the right moment.
Three Referees Fail the Fitness Test
The surprises did not stop at the refereeing law test, as Shobier also revealed that three referees failed the physical fitness test, which is considered one of the most important stages of referees’ preparation before they are allowed to officiate official matches.
Egyptian Premier League matches require referees to maintain a high level of physical fitness, particularly with the increasing speed of play and the number of attacking and defensive transitions. This makes the ability to follow the ball and stay close to key incidents essential for every referee.
The fitness test is designed to ensure that referees can handle the physical demands of a full match while maintaining concentration and proper positioning until the final minutes. 🏃♂️⚽
Incident of Assault Sparks Controversy
The biggest surprise was related to what happened after the physical fitness test, as the three referees who failed the test reportedly became involved in an argument with the official responsible for conducting the test.
According to Shobier, the incident escalated after one of the referees assaulted the official responsible for the test after being informed that he had failed to pass it. The incident subsequently opened the door for administrative and disciplinary action within the refereeing system.
Such incidents are particularly sensitive because referees are expected to demonstrate calmness, discipline, and emotional control, which are the same qualities they need during matches when dealing with players, coaching staffs, and fans.
Possible Punishment for the Referee
Shobier indicated that Essam Abdel Fattah is seriously considering taking strong action against the referee who allegedly assaulted the test official, explaining that the punishment could potentially include removing the referee from the refereeing system because of his behavior.
This possible direction highlights the importance of maintaining discipline within the system, particularly because preparation for the new season does not depend solely on passing technical and physical tests. It also requires commitment to professional conduct and the rules governing refereeing work.
Major Challenges Before the League Begins
These developments come ahead of the start of the new Egyptian Premier League season, at a time when the authorities responsible for refereeing are working to prepare a group of officials capable of handling matches at a level that matches the intensity of the competition.
The importance of the refereeing file increases with the strength of competition between clubs, whether for the title, qualification places for continental competitions, or the battle to avoid relegation. This makes every refereeing decision a major subject of attention.
Ultimately, technical and physical tests remain essential steps in selecting the most prepared referees, while discipline and professional conduct are equally important factors alongside performance on the pitch. 🏆⭐ Will the Egyptian refereeing system succeed in overcoming these issues and reaching its best level of readiness before the new season begins? Share your opinion about the expected level of Egyptian referees in the coming period.
