Referee Abroad and Spintso have announced an expanded collaboration at this summer’s Gothia Cup, the world’s largest and most international youth football tournament. The partnership will introduce a new Referee Academy & Development Group, aimed at elevating the standards of officiating and fostering international cooperation among referees.

The Gothia Cup, held annually in Gothenburg, Sweden, attracts around 1,700 teams from over 80 countries, playing approximately 4,500 matches on 110 pitches. With over 500 referees participating (of which roughly a quarter come from around the world), the tournament offers a unique and enriching environment for match officials to gain experience and develop their skills.

The newly established RA/Spintso Referee Academy will provide selected referees with access to top-level coaching from both Swedish and international refereeing experts. These coaches, many with experience in the UEFA Champions League and FIFA World Cup, will offer personalized feedback and conduct off-field development sessions.

Participants in the academy will also benefit from the latest in referee technology, utilizing Spintso’s Refcom II communication headsets during matches. This initiative is open to both international referees through Referee Abroad and Swedish referees via Spintso, promoting cross-cultural collaboration and learning.

Refereeing at the Gothia Cup offers an unparalleled opportunity for officials to experience high-level youth football in a vibrant, international setting. The tournament’s scale and diversity provide a dynamic platform for referees to hone their skills, engage with peers from around the world, and be part of a globally celebrated event.

Further details on the Referee Academy, including application procedures and selection criteria, will be announced soon. Interested referees are encouraged to stay updated through Referee Abroad and Spintso’s official channels.