By Neilley Claude EBESSA,
Journalist kick442.com – Cameroon
On January 1, 2026, FIFA officially announced the list of referees, assistant referees, and futsal referees selected for the 2026 World Cup, a key moment for football officiating. For Cameroon, this announcement brought both good news and difficult changes, as some referees received renewed trust, while others lost their FIFA badges.
11 Cameroonian Referees Keep Their FIFA Badge
The Cameroon Football Federation’s (Fecafoot) Central Commission of Referees has renewed its trust in 11 referees for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. These referees, who have built strong reputations over the years, will continue their international officiating careers at the highest level of football.
Returning Men’s Referees:
• Mefire Abdou (2022)
• Elvis Noupue (2013)
• Rodrigue Menye Mpele (2019)
• Effa Essouma Antoine (2013)
These veterans, who have earned respect on the African continent and internationally, will be heading to the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2025. Their experience and professionalism have made them integral to the Fecafoot’s refereeing team.
Returning Women’s Referees:
• Carine Atezambong (2014)
• Guimbang Etong Aline (2022)
Both Carine and Aline have represented Cameroon with distinction in international tournaments, and their continued presence will strengthen the country’s refereeing representation on the world stage.
8 New Cameroonian FIFA Referees: A New Generation for 2026
In an exciting development, eight Cameroonian referees are set to wear the prestigious FIFA badge for the first time. These new officials have worked hard to earn their place on the global stage and will play key roles in shaping the future of Cameroonian football officiating.
The newly selected referees are:
Men’s Referees:
• Biel Kolondo (2026)
• Emeyene Toukene (2026)
• Martin Ze Mengatta (2026)
Women’s Referees:
• Ntui Ayuk Priscilla (2026)
• Nji Mafaintchi Claire (2026)
• Adji Chanceline (2026)
• Yeppe Rebecca (2026)
• Mpande Mpou Gérard (2026)
For these eight newcomers, this is a landmark achievement, one that highlights their potential and the bright future of Cameroonian refereeing. With their debut on the FIFA stage, these officials are expected to bring new energy, perspective, and expertise to international competitions, including the upcoming World Cup.
Cameroon’s Futsal Officials: A Growing Presence
Cameroon’s presence in FIFA Futsal has also expanded. The country has made strides in futsal officiating, with three futsal referees now bearing the FIFA badge.
• Elingui Eric (2018)
• Ibrahim Souleymanou (2022)
• Marie Laure Mekoua (2026)
Marie Laure Mekoua’s selection for the 2026 World Cup is particularly significant as it marks her first appearance as a FIFA futsal referee. Her appointment signals Cameroon’s growing influence in the futsal scene, and many will be watching her progress closely in the coming years.
Eight Referees Lose Their FIFA Badge
However, not all the news from FIFA was positive for Cameroonian officials. Eight referees have lost their FIFA badges as part of the regular review process. This change means they will not be officiating at the 2026 World Cup.
Men’s Referees:
• Ngwa Blaise
• Bito Jeannot
• Dimoya Florent
• Sanda Oumarou
• Maazou
Women’s Referees:
• Ngo Bien Marie
• Bahane Victorine
• Kenne Laure
While the reasons for these decisions often stem from performance reviews, the loss of the FIFA badge is undoubtedly a setback for these referees. However, many of them will continue to be involved in local or continental tournaments, and their careers may still have significant opportunities ahead.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Cameroonian Officiating
As Cameroon prepares for its future on the world stage, the combination of experienced officials and new talent is a promising sign. The 2026 World Cup will see a blend of seasoned referees, such as Mefire Abdou and Carine Atezambong, alongside the excitement of a new generation, like Biel Kolondo and Ntui Ayuk Priscilla, making their debuts.
For Fecafoot, this momentous selection process shows the strength and potential of Cameroonian referees, who are earning their place among the world’s best. While some will see their journey continue, others will look to rebuild and push forward in their careers. But regardless of the outcomes, Cameroon’s refereeing community remains one to watch in the years to come.
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