About 150 referees have been ruled out by the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) from officiating in official league matches next season after they failed to meet the required assessment standards.
The evaluations were conducted to determine the competence of referees to handle matches across FAZ-affiliated leagues.
The comprehensive process involved physical fitness tests, mental aptitude evaluations, and written examinations.
Out of the 522 referees who took part in the national assessment exercise, 372 were successfully certified and cleared to officiate during the 2026 football season.
The move comes at a time when refereeing standards in local football have come under increased scrutiny, with clubs and stakeholders repeatedly raising concerns over inconsistent decision-making.
In recent seasons, several matches have been marred by controversial calls, resulting in protests, disciplinary hearings, and heightened debate over the quality of officiating.
FAZ has previously admitted that refereeing remains a challenge area and has stressed that stringent assessments, ongoing training programs, and improved fitness levels are key to enhancing professionalism and rebuilding trust in match officials.
Those who failed the assessment tests will be reassessed next year.
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