This update focuses on Moroccan football refereeing. Morocco’s football refereeing department is undergoing a sweeping internal shake-up after a season marked by controversy and open protest from match officials.
A deep reset for Moroccan football refereeing
Under mounting criticism and growing tensions, the technical commission in charge of refereeing has launched a major restructuring of the refereeing directorate. According to informed sources, several members of the executive office have been dismissed.
Despite reservations repeatedly voiced by a number of football stakeholders, Redouane Jiyed will remain in charge of the structure. This choice signals a desire for continuity at the top, while changing part of the team around him.
For fans and Moroccans living abroad, this clean-up shows how sensitive football remains in Morocco, with Moroccan football refereeing at the center of debate whenever trust starts to erode.
Experienced figures return and a new governance mix
The new organization chart brings back well-known names from the refereeing scene. Veteran official Abderrahim El Arjoune is making an official return to the refereeing bodies. A comeback for Bouchaïb El Ahrach is also expected, although not yet formally confirmed.
To strengthen technical governance, the federation is considering involving emerging national refereeing staff as well as foreign experts. The aim is to inject fresh momentum and better align Morocco’s structures with international standards.
This blend of experience and new profiles is meant to restore credibility at a time when Moroccan football is preparing for major competitions and when the country’s sporting image matters for Moroccans worldwide.
Contested rankings, rising tensions and the Bouchra Karboubi case
The reform comes in the wake of a very tense season. The publication of the final referees’ rankings for last year’s campaign triggered a wave of criticism. The hierarchy raised eyebrows, especially the 6th place given to Jallal Jiyed, despite his selection for the 2026 World Cup finals and appointments to several high-profile matches.
Tension increased further after disputed decisions in the Botola and recurring controversy over referee appointments. The situation was aggravated by the case of international referee Bouchra Karboubi, who first announced, then reconsidered, her retirement without receiving a clear administrative reply, before eventually leaving Morocco to pursue her career in Tahiti.
These incidents exposed structural weaknesses in the management of refereeing and pushed the technical commission to act quickly.
A new structure for VAR and national competitions
Alongside the institutional changes, the refereeing directorate has finalized the allocation of match referees and video assistant referees across all national divisions. The reshuffle is based on last season’s technical assessments.
In the top division, VAR operations will now be handled by a dedicated trio: Abderrahim Arrakhiz, Soulaymane El Atifi and Abdelmonaim Basslam. A stricter evaluation protocol will be applied throughout the league season.
- Closer monitoring of VAR officials’ performances
- Clear allocation of responsibilities for each match
- Progressive alignment with international best practices
For Moroccans abroad, many of whom follow the Botola online or during visits home, these measures aim to make domestic competitions more credible and easier to read. If Moroccan football refereeing manages to reduce the volume of controversy, it could further strengthen the standing of the national game beyond the country’s borders.
A decisive test next season
The real test of this overhaul will begin once the domestic leagues resume. The new leadership, the return of experienced referees and the reinforced VAR structure will be judged on concrete results: fewer disputes and more control in high-pressure matches.
Supporters in Morocco and across Europe, North America and the Middle East will be watching closely to see whether this major clean-up truly delivers more fairness and calm on the pitch.
For more context, readers can follow Canal212 news for Moroccans abroad.
For official updates, readers can check the relevant official source.
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