For many years, Asia has been one of the most requested destinations among referees looking to combine football, travel and cultural discovery. In 2026, Referee Abroad is proud to take another major step forward on the continent, offering more opportunities than ever before for referees to experience football in one of the world’s most diverse and fascinating regions.
This renewed commitment to Asia follows a period of significant growth in the region, highlighted by our recently announced cooperation with the Japan Football Association and the expansion of our tournament portfolio across the continent.
Over the past months, Referee Abroad has been working closely with tournament organisers across Asia to create a diverse calendar of opportunities for referees wishing to explore the continent. As a result, applications will soon open for five different international tournaments across Malaysia, Singapore and China.
From the tropical landscapes of Borneo to the futuristic skyline of Singapore and the spectacular mountains of southern China, referees will be able to experience destinations that are as memorable away from the football field as they are on it.
Five Tournaments, Three Countries, One Incredible Continent
Borneo Football Cup, Malaysia 🇲🇾
30 September – 11 October 2026
Hosted in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, the Borneo Football Cup has rapidly established itself as one of Southeast Asia’s leading international youth tournaments.
Teams travel from across Asia and Oceania to compete in an event that combines football with the unique atmosphere of Malaysian Borneo. Referees can enjoy tropical beaches, vibrant local culture and some of the most famous sunsets in Asia, all while working in a truly international football environment.
Apply here: https://refereeabroad.com/product/borneo-football-cup/
Singa Cup, Singapore 🇸🇬
31 October – 7 November 2026
Few youth tournaments in Asia can match the reputation of the Singa Cup. Hosted in Singapore, the competition attracts teams from across the world and has become one of the continent’s premier international youth football events.
For referees, the tournament combines high-quality football with the chance to discover one of Asia’s most modern and multicultural cities. Whether visiting Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay, Chinatown or Little India, Singapore offers a unique blend of cultures packed into one of the world’s most impressive urban environments.
Apply here: https://refereeabroad.com/product/singa-cup-singapore/
Borneo U18 Football Cup, Malaysia 🇲🇾
15 – 22 November 2026
Taking place after the Borneo Football Cup, the Borneo U18 Cup focuses on older and more competitive youth age groups.
The event provides referees with an excellent opportunity to officiate challenging matches involving talented young players from across the region. Hosted in the same spectacular setting of Kota Kinabalu, the tournament offers a perfect combination of football development and travel experience.
Apply here: https://refereeabroad.com/product/borneo-u18-cup/
Maxime Elite Cup, Malaysia 🇲🇾
26 November – 7 December 2026
The final Asian destination of the year takes referees to Kuala Lumpur, the vibrant capital of Malaysia.
The Maxim Elite Cup brings together ambitious youth teams from across the region and offers referees a busy tournament schedule in one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting cities. Known for its iconic Petronas Twin Towers, outstanding food scene and fascinating blend of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures, Kuala Lumpur provides an unforgettable backdrop to an international refereeing experience.
Apply here: https://refereeabroad.com/product/maxim-elite-cup-malaysia/
Yangshuo Cup, China 🇨🇳
24-31 January 2027
Our Asian journey begins in one of China’s most beautiful destinations. Located in Guangxi Province, Yangshuo is famous throughout the country for its dramatic limestone mountains, winding rivers and breathtaking scenery.
The tournament brings together teams from across China and abroad, while referees have the opportunity to experience a side of China rarely seen by international visitors. Between matches, participants can explore the famous Li River, traditional villages and some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Asia.
Apply here: https://refereeabroad.com/product/yangshuo-cup/
More Than Just Refereeing
What makes Asia special is not simply the football.
It is the opportunity to experience entirely different cultures, discover destinations far beyond the traditional tourist routes and meet referees, players and coaches from all over the world.
Applications Opening Soon
Applications for all five tournaments will open soon on the Referee Abroad website.
Whether you are looking for your first international appointment or searching for your next football adventure, Asia offers experiences unlike anywhere else in the world.
Five tournaments. Three countries. Countless memories.
We look forward to welcoming referees from across the globe as Referee Abroad continues to strengthen its presence across one of the world’s most exciting continents.
Explore your refereeing world.