KPL Launches International Referee Exchange Programme
The agreement provides for the appointment of foreign referees to matches of the Kazakhstan Premier League, as well as the participation of Kazakhstani referees in games abroad. This format will allow referees to exchange experience, become familiar with different refereeing schools, and adapt to international standards.
The first appointments under the programme will take place this weekend. The match between Astana and Yelimay will be officiated by a referee from Portugal, while the FC Kairat vs. Aktobe, has been refereed by the specialist from Kyrgyzstan.
It is important to note that the initiative is aimed at developing the domestic refereeing community. Kazakhstani referees will continue to officiate league matches while also gaining opportunities to work abroad, participate in international games, and adopt best practices in match officiating. Such exchanges create conditions for improving qualifications, enhancing match management skills, and strengthening trust in Kazakhstani refereeing.
The referee exchange programme represents a significant step toward integration into the international football community, expanding cooperation with foreign colleagues, and improving the quality of officiating in the national championship.
