On January 1, 2026, FIFA officially announced the list of referees, assistant referees, and futsal referees selected for the 2026 World Cup, a key moment for football officiating. For Cameroon, this announcement brought both good news and difficult changes, as some referees received renewed trust, while others lost their FIFA badges.
11 Cameroonian Referees Keep Their FIFA Badge
The Cameroon Football Federations Fecafoot Central Commission of Referees has renewed its trust in 11 referees for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. These referees, who have built strong reputations over the years, will continue their international officiating careers at the highest level of football.
Returning Mens Referees: Mefire Abdou 2022 Elvis Noupue 2013 Rodrigue Menye Mpele 2019 Effa Essouma Antoine 2013
These veterans, who have earned respect on the African continent and internationally, will be heading to the Africa Cup of Nations CAN 2025. Their experience and professionalism have made them integral to the Fecafoots refereeing team.
Returning Womens Referees: Carine Atezambong 2014 Guimbang Etong Aline 2022
Both Carine and Aline have represented Cameroon with distinction in international tournaments, and their continued presence will strengthen the countrys refereeing representation on the world stage.
8 New Cameroonian FIFA Referees: A New Generation for 2026
In an exciting development, eight Cameroonian referees are set to wear the prestigious FIFA badge for the first time. These new officials have worked hard to earn their place on the global stage and will play key roles in shaping the future of Cameroonian football officiating.
The newly selected referees are:
Mens Referees: Biel Kolondo 2026 Emeyene Toukene 2026 Martin Ze Mengatta 2026
Womens Referees: Ntui Ayuk Priscilla 2026 Nji Mafaintchi Claire 2026 Adji Chanceline 2026 Yeppe Rebecca 2026 Mpande Mpou Grard 2026
For these eight newcomers, this is a landmark achievement, one that highlights their potential and the bright future of Cameroonian refereeing. With their debut on the FIFA stage, these officials are expected to bring new energy, perspective, and expertise to international competitions, including the upcoming World Cup.
Cameroons Futsal Officials: A Growing Presence
Cameroons presence in FIFA Futsal has also expanded. The country has made strides in futsal officiating, with three futsal referees now bearing the FIFA badge. Elingui Eric 2018 Ibrahim Souleymanou 2022 Marie Laure Mekoua 2026
Marie Laure Mekouas selection for the 2026 World Cup is particularly significant as it marks her first appearance as a FIFA futsal referee. Her appointment signals Cameroons growing influence in the futsal scene, and many will be watching her progress closely in the coming years.
Eight Referees Lose Their FIFA Badge
However, not all the news from FIFA was positive for Cameroonian officials. Eight referees have lost their FIFA badges as part of the regular review process. This change means they will not be officiating at the 2026 World Cup.
Mens Referees: Ngwa Blaise Bito Jeannot Dimoya Florent Sanda Oumarou Maazou
Womens Referees: Ngo Bien Marie Bahane Victorine Kenne Laure
While the reasons for these decisions often stem from performance reviews, the loss of the FIFA badge is undoubtedly a setback for these referees. However, many of them will continue to be involved in local or continental tournaments, and their careers may still have significant opportunities ahead.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Cameroonian Officiating
As Cameroon prepares for its future on the world stage, the combination of experienced officials and new talent is a promising sign. The 2026 World Cup will see a blend of seasoned referees, such as Mefire Abdou and Carine Atezambong, alongside the excitement of a new generation, like Biel Kolondo and Ntui Ayuk Priscilla, making their debuts.
For Fecafoot, this momentous selection process shows the strength and potential of Cameroonian referees, who are earning their place among the worlds best. While some will see their journey continue, others will look to rebuild and push forward in their careers. But regardless of the outcomes, Cameroons refereeing community remains one to watch in the years to come.
