PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad — Trinidad and Tobago’s refereeing fraternity has secured a major international endorsement, with 14 match officials appointed to FIFA’s referees panel for 2026.
The appointments, confirmed by FIFA on January 6, underscore the country’s growing influence in elite officiating and reaffirm its reputation as a consistent producer of high-caliber referees and assistant referees.
World Cup experience anchors the group
Among the officials named is assistant referee Caleb Wales, whose credentials include officiating at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. His inclusion adds further distinction to a list that blends global experience with emerging talent.
FIFA’s panel features seven Trinidad and Tobago referees: Timothy Derry, Cecile Hinds, Nikolai Nyron, Andrew Samuel, Crystal Sobers, Kwinsi Williams, and Nathalya Williams.
They are joined by assistant referees Kirt Charles, Evelyn Carissa Douglas, Keron Myers, Melissa Nicholas, Shash Ramsaroop, Ainsley Rochard, and Wales, forming one of the region’s strongest contingents on the international stage.
TTFA hails consistency and professional standards
In congratulating the officials, the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) said the appointments reflect the strength, discipline, and professionalism of the country’s refereeing development programs.
The federation emphasized that the selections validate years of structured training and performance at both regional and international levels.
TTFA President Kieron Edwards described the milestone as a defining achievement for local football and its officials.
“This is a proud moment for TT football. Our match officials continue to earn respect regionally and internationally through their discipline, preparation and commitment to excellence,” Edwards said in a release.
He stressed that the recognition was the product of sustained effort rather than coincidence.
“These appointments don’t come by chance. They are the result of years of sacrifice, development and steady improvement.”
As the 2026 cycle unfolds, Trinidad and Tobago’s officials now stand firmly positioned to contribute at the highest levels of the global game.
