In a significant recognition of officiating excellence, Trinidad and Tobago has secured an unprecedented 14 appointments to the FIFA referees panel for 2026. The appointments, announced by FIFA on January 6, include assistant referee Caleb Wales, who previously demonstrated his expertise at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
The distinguished roster features referees Timothy Derry, Cecile Hinds, Nikolai Nyron, Andrew Samuel, Crystal Sobers, Kwinsi Williams, and Nathalya Williams. They are joined by assistant referees Kirt Charles, Evelyn Carissa Douglas, Keron Myers, Melissa Nicholas, Shash Ramsaroop, and Ainsley Rochard. The Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) formally congratulated the officials through a media release on January 12.
TTFA President Kieron Edwards characterized this development as a pivotal moment for the nation’s football community. He emphasized that these appointments result from years of dedicated sacrifice, continuous development, and unwavering commitment to excellence rather than mere chance. Edwards noted that the officials have earned regional and international respect through their disciplined approach and thorough preparation.
The TTFA stated that these appointments not only reflect the consistency and professionalism of Trinidad and Tobago’s refereeing program but also reinforce the country’s reputation for producing officials capable of performing at the highest levels of international football. This achievement underscores the football body’s conviction that Trinidad and Tobago can produce world-class quality both on and off the field, with referees being considered essential components in the growth and development of the sport within the nation.