AIFF Referees Gear Up for 2025-26 Season with Rigorous Fitness Tests

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has launched mandatory fitness tests for its Elite and National Referees as they gear up for the 2025-26 season. Conducted in Gwalior, Kolkata, and Chennai, these assessments are designed to ensure referees meet FIFA's stringent standards. The tests include timed sprints and endurance runs, along with body composition evaluations. AIFF's Chief Refereeing Officer, Trevor Kettle, stresses the importance of maintaining an athletic appearance and lifestyle management among referees. This initiative aims to enhance the professionalism and performance of match officials in the sport.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 10, 2025, 02:02 IST

Referees Undergo Fitness Assessments

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has initiated fitness evaluations for its Elite and National Referees, both male and female, as they prepare for the upcoming 2025-26 season. These assessments are taking place throughout July at three designated locations: Gwalior, Kolkata, and Chennai.

For male referees, the fitness tests align with the rigorous standards established for international match officials by FIFA. The evaluation includes six timed sprints covering 40 meters, which must be completed in six seconds, alongside 40 runs of 75 meters each within a 15-second timeframe, allowing for an 18-second recovery between each run. Furthermore, Elite referees are required to undergo Body Fat Composition assessments to ensure they adhere to the necessary lifestyle and training standards aimed at promoting professional excellence.

Trevor Kettle, the Chief Refereeing Officer of AIFF, emphasized the importance of these fitness standards, stating, “Match officials in professional football must meet strict fitness criteria and are held accountable for any shortcomings. I am also encouraging all referees to maintain an athletic appearance, which requires a cultural shift in their lifestyle management, including diet, nutrition, and strength training. The fitness test, especially the high-intensity 40-meter runs, is challenging, but those who possess the required physical and mental resilience, which is vital during matches, tend to excel.”