The Malta FA is pleased to announce that it has retained the maximum possible number of FIFA International Match Officials in 2026.
The milestone number of 18 match officials was first reached last year, representing the highest total ever recorded in the Malta FA’s history. The fact that this impressive tally is being retained for another year highlights the hard work being done with regards to the development of the Maltese refereeing sector.
This follows a five-year strategy that was launched in 2020, where the Malta FA has proudly recorded an increase in international appointments, not just in quantity, but also in quality. Such appointments include league phase matches of UEFA club competitions, particularly last December with a record allocation of three League Phase matches from the UEFA Conference League.
The pinnacle of this long-term strategy was achieved with the promotion of Ishmael Barbara to UEFA First Category Match Official, marking Malta’s return to this prestigious level after a seven-year absence.
Such achievements reflect collective efforts of all members within the refereeing community who continue working to elevate Maltese officiating to higher levels. Additionally it also underlines the trust and confidence shown by FIFA and UEFA in the Maltese refereeing development structures and systems, as well as the overall capability of the Maltese refereeing community.
Commenting on the achievement, Alan Mario Sant, Chairman of the Referees Committee stated: “Today is the one day of the year when referees take centre stage.”
“The success of our five-year strategy is evident in maintaining the maximum number of FIFA badges, improving both the quality and quantity of international appointments, and the promotion of Ishmael Barbara to UEFA First Category Match Official. These achievements reflect our hard work, clear structure, and strong direction, and motivate us to continue raising the bar even higher,” he added.
The full list of Malta’s FIFA Badge holders for 2026 is as follows:
FIFA Referees
Ishmael Barbara
Philip Farrugia
Matthew De Gabriele
Alex Johnson
Joanna Vassallo
FIFA Futsal Referee Badge
Stephen Vella
Andrea Naudi
Danilo Francalanza
FIFA Assistant Referee Badge
David Castillo
Mark Ciantar
James Muscat
Luke Portelli
Mitchell Scerri
Duncan Spencer
Jurgen Spiteri
Kurt Saliba
FIFA Beach Soccer Referee Badge
George Anthony Attard
Stephania Bonnici
Special recognition was also given to three match officials for their service on the FIFA Panel:
Trustin Farrugia Cann – International Referee (2016-2025)
Duncan Sultana – International Assistant Referee (2015-2025)
Roberto Vella – International Assistant Referee (2015-2025)