Difficulties faced by referees in performing the FIFA fitness test (a field study of some referees of the Batna Regional Football League)

Abstract

Many matches are caused by referees to cause one team to lose to another, and many matches are stopped due to a single mistake or a series of mistakes made by the referee in a single game. The reasons for these errors are numerous, including issues related to the pitch, the type of match, and the referee himself. In our Arab world, and Algeria in particular, we place great importance on the quality of players and coaches, and even our attention to jerseys and shoes surpasses our focus on improving the training of our referees. The best evidence of our lack of fully trained referees is the absence of Algerian referees from international competitions, and even when they do participate, it rarely exceeds two. Through this research, we attempt to shed light on the role of the referee on the field, specifically focusing on the physical fitness test that precedes the start of the football season. This test poses a significant obstacle for some referees, especially those who do not train regularly and are then suddenly summoned to attend the test. Preparing for the physical fitness test known as the FIFA test requires comprehensive physical preparation. In this research, I have focused on the physical aspect, particularly developing endurance and training load, which require theoretical knowledge and continuous, adapted field training according to the referee's abilities and the requirements of the competition.