Miami: FIFA President Gianni Infantino has personally greeted the 170 referees, assistant referees, and video match officials who will oversee the FIFA World Cup 2026 across Mexico, Canada, and the United States.
According to Emirates News Agency, Infantino expressed his enthusiasm while attending a pre-tournament training session with the officials, stating, "Today I really feel great here in Miami, spending time with Team One. The best of the best." He emphasized the years of preparation the officials have undertaken to be ready for what he termed the "greatest FIFA World Cup ever." The training is being held at the facilities in Miami, which will serve as the base for the referees during the tournament.
As part of their World Cup preparations, 52 referees, 88 assistant referees, and 30 video match officials (VMOs) are participating in a 10-day seminar in Miami. While VMOs will relocate to the International Broadcast Centre in Dallas, Miami will be the home for the rest of the match officials throughout the tournament. Infantino underscored the importance of supporting the officials, noting their challenging roles and the lack of recognition they often receive.
Infantino highlighted that the success of the referees directly correlates with FIFA's success, acknowledging the officials as the best in the world, fully prepared mentally, physically, and emotionally for the tournament. The officials were selected through an extensive process over more than three years, including evaluations at FIFA tournaments and various domestic and international competitions.
In a nod to Miami, Team One's training kit is designed in a "pink flamingo" style, celebrating the city's unique identity.
