Saudi Pro League referees begin training camp in Spain for new season

Saudi Pro League referees have launched their pre-season training camp in the Spanish city of Vitoria, which will run until August 9 as part of their technical and physical preparations for the 2026-2027 football season.

A total of 43 referees are taking part in the camp, including 14 main referees and 29 assistant referees. The program features a series of theoretical lectures and practical exercises covering key refereeing topics such as recent amendments to the Laws of the Game, training on Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, handball interpretations, tactical fouls, positioning and reading play, and match management. Participants will also undergo tests in English language and the rules of football.

The schedule includes fitness training sessions both in the gym and on the field, focusing on strength, coordination, and high-intensity running to enhance the referees' physical and technical readiness.

Meanwhile, 11 international referees are attending the AFC Elite Referees Course in Uzbekistan, coinciding with the camp in Spain. This group consists of seven main and assistant referees, and four VAR referees.

The Referees Committee will also hold remote sessions for those participating in the Asian course to ensure they receive all lectures and educational materials from the Spain camp, aiming to unify technical standards and refereeing procedures ahead of the new season.

The training camp in Spain is part of the Referees Committee's annual schedule to ensure referees are fully prepared for the upcoming season, supporting higher standards and improved quality in domestic competitions.