Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala has been omitted from FIFA's preliminary list of match officials selected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The list, which includes referees, assistant referees, and video match officials, was announced by FIFA in early 2026 as part of preparations for the tournament to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Ndala, a FIFA-listed referee since 2016, was a prominent official at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). His performance in the tournament, including his handling of the high-stakes quarter-final match, had been a topic of discussion prior to the World Cup selection.
The selection process for World Cup officials is rigorous, involving assessments by FIFA's Referees Committee based on technical skills, physical condition, and performances in international matches over recent years. The committee's decisions are final and not subject to appeal.
FIFA has stated that the selected officials will undergo comprehensive training programs ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The omission of a high-profile official like Ndala highlights the competitive nature of the selection for the world's biggest football tournament.
