FECOFA announced on October 8 that its refresher course for elite referees and assistant referees had concluded the previous day in Kinshasa ahead of the 2026-2027 season. The course covered the officiating group selected for Illicocash Ligue 1 and the Congo Cup.

According to the federation, only participants who passed the physical and theory tests will be eligible to officiate from the start of the national season. The announcement provides neither a named list of successful referees nor individual match appointments.

The programme combined an update on the 2026-2027 Laws of the Game with FIFA fitness tests and video tests. Sessions also addressed match management, communication and the use of VAR. Including that subject in the course does not amount to an announcement that VAR will be deployed in the league.

At the closing ceremony, secretary-general Laeticia Muderhwa stressed the professionalism, integrity and rigour expected in the new season. FECOFA also say they intend to improve referees' working conditions, without setting out measures or a timetable in this statement.

Sources and references

FECOFA — elite referees' refresher course, 8 October 2026

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