Former PSL referee Victor Gomes lands key COSAFA role

Former South African referee Victor Gomes has secured another major responsibility in football, with a new appointment that extends his influence beyond the pitch.

Gomes appointed COSAFA referees chairman

Gomes has been named Chairman of the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) Referees Committee, the South African Football Association (SAFA) has confirmed.

Congratulating him on the appointment, SAFA said:

“His appointment at sub-continental level marks another significant milestone in an extraordinary administration and match officiating career. Gomes brings a wealth of expertise and international stature to his new role, continuing to elevate the standard of officiating across the Southern African region.”

Gomes to serve at FIFA U-17 World Cup

SAFA also announced that Gomes will work as a technical instructor at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026, scheduled to run from November 19 to December 13.

"SAFA is immensely proud of Victor Gomes and his continuous rise in global and continental football governance. His appointment as Chairman of the COSAFA Referees Committee reflects his dedication to raising the standard of match officiating.”

Gomes officiated in South Africa's top flight from 2008 until his retirement in late 2022. He won the PSL Referee of the Season award twice, in 2012/13 and 2017/18.

He joined FIFA's international refereeing panel in 2011 and handled major continental and international fixtures, including the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Egypt. He also officiated at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, bringing his active refereeing career to a close.

Gomes currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Referees Committee, contributing to referee development, training and selection across Africa.

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