Referee applications end in...
Gothenburg
,
Sweden
Gothia Cup – The World Youth Cup | Sweden
Arrival:
18-07-2027
//
Departure:
25-07-2027
- 99
- 30-06-2027
- U12-U18
- Schools
- development
The World Youth Cup: The Gothia Cup
The Gothia Cup is renowned as the world’s largest and most international youth football tournament, drawing around 2,000 teams from 80 nations each year. With 4,500 matches played across 110 fields, this prestigious event offers referees a unique opportunity to officiate at one of the most diverse and high-profile youth tournaments globally. Since its inception in 1975, the Gothia Cup has seen participation from nearly one million players across 146 countries. The tournament’s exceptional standing in the football community has earned it recognition from FIFA as the official “World Youth Cup.” For referees, this is not just a chance to officiate international matches but to be part of a global celebration of football, fostering connections with colleagues and players from around the world.
Detailed information
- School-based accommodation throughout the tournament week
- UPGRADE possibility to hotels at an additional cost (enquire within)
- Full board
- Free public transportation in Gothenburg, including too and from games
- Exclusive Referee Abroad Kit by Macron
- Basic health insurance
- Referee Abroad staff on-site all week
- Referee mentors on hand to help improve your game
Not included
- Flights or transportation to and from the tournament base
To be eligible, referees must be at least 16 years of age. Applicants under the age of 18 are welcome to participate but must submit a signed parental consent form before the tournament.
Referees at the Gothia Cup are accommodated free of charge in local schools, which serve as the official accommodation for participants throughout the tournament. In recent editions, schools such as IF Warta, Önnereds, Lundby, and Mölnlycke have been used, although the final allocation may vary each year.
Accommodation is in shared classrooms, with mattresses placed on the floor. All bedding is provided by the tournament, so there is no need to bring sheets, pillows or blankets, although some referees choose to bring an additional pillow or sleeping bag for extra comfort.
Room sizes typically range from 10 to 40 people, depending on the school and classroom assigned. Female referees and minors are always accommodated in separate rooms to ensure a safe and appropriate environment.
It is important to have realistic expectations. School accommodation is clean, safe and practical, but it is a basic setup designed for a large international youth tournament rather than a hotel experience. It is also a great opportunity to meet referees from around the world and experience the social side of the event.
For those who prefer additional privacy and comfort, hotel accommodation upgrades are expected to be available, subject to availability. Prices are to be confirmed and will be communicated closer to the tournament.
When visiting Gothenburg, you’ll find a wealth of attractions to explore. A top highlight is Liseberg, Scandinavia’s largest amusement park, where you can enjoy exhilarating roller coasters, rides, and vibrant entertainment. Dive into Gothenburg’s maritime history at the Maritime Museum and Aquarium, which showcases the city’s rich nautical heritage.
Wander through the charming Haga district, known for its cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and traditional wooden houses. For interactive learning, visit the Universeum, a hands-on science center that’s perfect for all ages. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Slottsskogen, Gothenburg’s expansive city park, or explore the Art Museum, featuring a notable collection of Nordic and international art.
Indulge in local flavors at the lively Fish Market (Feskekôrka) or take in panoramic views from the iconic Lipstick Building (Läppstiftet). Gothenburg offers a rich mix of history, culture, and entertainment, ensuring a memorable experience for every visitor.
Landvetter Airport (IATA: GOT) is Gothenburg’s primary airport, situated 25 km east of the city. It serves as a hub for approximately 30 airlines, including major European carriers and some international airlines. Recently, low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and Wizzair have also relocated to Landvetter following the closure of the city’s other airport, GSE.
From Landvetter Airport, a bus service to the city center operates every 15-20 minutes. The fare is 95 SEK one-way (185 SEK return) if purchased online (an additional 10 SEK applies if bought on-site), with the journey taking approximately 30 minutes.
Alternatively, you can reach Gothenburg via frequent train services. The main rail station, Centralstationen, connects to Copenhagen with hourly Öresundståg trains. The trip takes about 3 hours and 50 minutes and costs 447 SEK (267 SEK for travelers under 20). These trains also stop at Copenhagen Airport. For a faster journey, consider transferring at Malmö to the SJ high-speed train, which can save around 30 minutes but requires advance booking. High-speed trains from Stockholm to Gothenburg take about 3 hours. Additionally, NSB trains from Oslo to Gothenburg offer a travel time of approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes.
