The CFF’s position in support of Cypriot refereeing is clear, and the Federation’s president reiterated it today (August 19) opening of the Annual Refereeing Seminar.
Here is Mr. Loizidis’s address in full: “For every federation, refereeing is a key priority, and the same certainly applies to the Cyprus Football Association (CFA). We leave no stone unturned—we study everything and put it into practice.
Last year, as you well recall, as the Federation’s new leadership, we set a goal to work with Cypriot referees and offer our support.
We had announced that by the end of the first round, we would rely exclusively on Cypriot referees, and we more than achieved that goal. This year, we want you to be even stronger so that we can surpass last year’s goal.
If you recall, last year at this same seminar I emphasized that we must fight the beast of prejudice. To control it, we need even more work and greater effort.
This year will be more challenging, and you must raise your performance level. New regulations have been incorporated into the game, and UEFA’s stance is clear.
UEFA has made achieving greater consistency in refereeing decisions across Europe one of its key priorities. To this end, it seeks to foster a common and clear understanding of the Laws of the Game among all stakeholders: referees, match officials, teams, and fans. A prime example is the creation of the “Clear Line” platform, which includes over 150 game scenarios and serves as an important tool for training, analysis, and guidance.
From this podium, I would like to address both the Chairman and the members of the Referees’ Committee, as well as all of you, emphasizing the importance of the correct, consistent, and uniform application of the Regulations. Consistency in decisions is not merely a technical requirement; it is a fundamental prerequisite for the credibility, transparency, and trust in Cypriot soccer.
In closing, I would like once again to reiterate our support for refereeing, to welcome our new referees, and to wish you all a great soccer season.”
