The DIFA Referees Committee shall implement and interpret the Laws of the Game, ensuring fair and professional match management in deaf football and futsal. In alignment with FIFA’s framework, the DIFA Referees Commission is empowered to propose amendments to the Laws of the Game. The committee will appoint referees and assistant referees for matches in competitions organised by DIFA, with the full authority given to referees over their decisions under the independent refereeing system introduced in 2024. This system aims to improve accuracy and efficiency while prioritising the role of human referees in managing the game.
To further strengthen officiating, DIFA has doubled the international referee quota from 10 to 20 for the 2024-2027 period, ensuring a more inclusive representation with female assistant referees. These changes are designed to enhance the quality, integrity, and inclusivity of deaf sports refereeing on a global scale.
Nino LANTINK (NED)
Tasks:
• Chairman of DIFA Referees Commission
Paul KIRBY (ENG)
Tasks:
• DIFA Referee Commissioner for World
• Lead for the DIFA Referee Workshop
Maarten VREUGDENHIL (NED)
Tasks:
• DIFA Referee Commissioner for World
• Development of the referees
• Contact person for (new) DIFA Referees
Peter Jan RIJPKEMA (NED)
Tasks:
• DIFA Referee Commissioner for World
• Referee Recruitment Strategy
• Media & Design
DIFA Referee Commission Constitution : Click here
DIFA Referee Protocol : Click here
DIFA Referee Commission : Click here
