Assistant referees in Africa play a vital role in maintaining the integrity and flow of football matches. Their compensation varies significantly across different countries and competitions, reflecting the value placed on their expertise. Let’s now take a look at Highest Paid Assistant Referees in Africa:
Domestic League Earnings
South Africa’s Premier Soccer League (PSL):
In the PSL, assistant referees earn R4,700 per game. Officiating four games a month totals R18,800.
Kenya’s Premier League:
During the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023, assistant referees received Ksh188,398 (approximately $1,200) per match.
This rate was established following a directive from the former Confederation of African Football (CAF) president, Ahmad Ahmad, who increased the payment from $750 to $1,200 in 2017.
International Match Compensation
FIFA Competitions:
At FIFA events like the World Cup, assistant referees earn $2,500 per group-stage match, with this amount doubling for knockout rounds.
CAF Competitions:
CAF has also enhanced compensation for officials in tournaments such as the Africa Cup of Nations.
For instance, during the 2023 AFCON, referees and assistant referees received a per-match fee of $1,200, reflecting CAF’s commitment to improving the welfare of its officials.
Factors Influencing Earnings
Several elements impact the earnings of assistant referees across the continent:
- Country and League: Compensation varies by nation and league, influenced by local economic conditions and football’s popularity.
- Experience and Rank: Veteran officials with higher rankings often secure more prestigious matches, leading to increased earnings.
- International Assignments: Participation in international tournaments and FIFA events offers higher remuneration compared to domestic fixtures.
Wrap-Up
The financial rewards for assistant referees in Africa are diverse, and shaped by regional standards, experience, and the scale of the matches officiated. While domestic league earnings provide a foundation, international assignments significantly boost their income.
This article was updated 4 months ago ago
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