Alireza Faghani – A Trailblazing International Football Referee

Transition to Refereeing and Rapid Rise

Making the Switch

In 1994, at the age of 16, Faghani decided to pursue refereeing, inspired by his family’s involvement and his passion for the game. His early years saw him officiate local matches, where he quickly earned recognition for his calmness under pressure and fair decision-making.

Climbing the Ranks

Within a decade, Faghani’s talent was evident, leading to his appointment as a top-tier referee in Iran’s Persian Gulf Pro League. His performances in domestic competitions caught the attention of regional football authorities, and in 2008, he was added to the FIFA international referees list—an elite group recognized worldwide for their officiating standards.

Breakthrough International Assignments

Faghani’s debut on the international stage was marked by his officiating of the 2009 AFC President’s Cup Final, held in Tajikistan, where he demonstrated maturity and composure. His ability to handle high-pressure situations earned him further assignments, including the AFC Challenge Cup final in 2010.

His reputation as a reliable and decisive referee grew, leading to his involvement in some of Asia’s most significant tournaments.

July 14, 2025 | 5:11 pm