Gibraltar Referees' Association

The Gibraltar Referees’ Association (“GRA”) notes and welcomes the joint statement issued by the Gibraltar Football Association (“GFA”) and Catrino TV concerning the despicable comments made during the live broadcast of the Gibraltar Football League fixture between Europa FC and Mons Calpe SC on 25 April 2026.

The GRA is grateful to Catrino TV for its apology to the match officials and, in particular, for its acknowledgment that certain comments made during the broadcast were excessive and fell below the standards expected of an official broadcast partner.

The GRA also welcomes Catrino TV’s confirmation that it had no basis whatsoever to suggest that the integrity, honesty, impartiality or independence of the match officials had been compromised.

The GRA considers this acknowledgment to be important. Match officials are, quite properly, subject to scrutiny and criticism in relation to decisions made on the field. However, there must be a clear and fundamental distinction between robust but legitimate criticism of a refereeing decision and comments which call into question the integrity, honesty, impartiality or independence of a match official without any proper evidential basis.

The GRA is certain that both the GFA and Catrino TV acknowledge Mr Galia as a highly respected referee both domestically and internationally, and recognise him as a person of integrity, professionalism and unimpeachable character. The GRA has every confidence in Mr Galia and in the professionalism and integrity of Gibraltar’s match officials.

The GRA further welcome Catrino TV’s confirmation that the required editorial and operational improvements are being implemented to ensure that its broadcasts reflect the professionalism, balance and standards expected of an official broadcaster of the Gibraltar Football League. The GRA sincerely hopes that these measures will ensure that conduct of this nature never again darkens the doorstep of Gibraltar football.

The GRA would also remind all stakeholders that the IFAB Laws of the Game provide the framework within which refereeing decisions are made. Should Catrino TV or any of its commentators require assistance in understanding the Laws of the Game, or any amendments and interpretations introduced by IFAB, the GRA would be pleased to extend an invitation to Catrino TV to attend a workshop where the relevant provisions and any recent changes can be explained in detail. The GRA would welcome the opportunity to assist Catrino TV and its commentators in ensuring that future commentary concerning refereeing decisions is properly informed by the Laws of the Game and that situations of this nature are not repeated.

Finally, the GRA wishes to place on record its continued support for all match officials in Gibraltar. Refereeing is an exceptionally demanding role, requiring officials to make significant decisions in real time, often under intense pressure and scrutiny. Those who undertake that responsibility deserve robust scrutiny where appropriate, but also the respect and professional courtesy necessary to allow them to perform their duties without their integrity being unfairly called into question.

Another European appointment for Gibraltar’s officials. 👏

🔗Read more: https://www.gibraltarfa.com/news/gibraltar-referees-in-european-action-again-this-week-865

2026/27 UEFA Europa Conference League First Qualifying Round (Second Legs)
Tuesday 14 July 2026
21:00 CET
Serravalle (San Marino Stadium)
LA FIORITA (SMR) vs. UNA STRASSEN (LUX)
Referee: Seth Sheehan Galia GIB
Assistant Referee 1: Michael Gerard Macias GIB
Assistant Referee 2: Fausti Guerrero GIB
Fourth Official: Timothy Reoch GIB

Introducing… the Grassroots Referee Foundation Course.

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⏰ | 9AM - 12PM
📍 | Europa Point Stadium
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- gibraltarfa.com/news/grassroot… 🔗

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https://www.facebook.com/share/1BFDBf42tz/?mibextid=wwXIfr

2026/27 UEFA Europa Conference League First Qualifying Round (Second Legs)
Tuesday 14 July 2026
21:00 CET
Serravalle (San Marino Stadium)
LA FIORITA (SMR) vs. UNA STRASSEN (LUX)
Referee: Seth Sheehan Galia GIB
Assistant Referee 1: Michael Gerard Macias GIB
Assistant Referee 2: Fausti Guerrero GIB
Fourth Official: Timothy Reoch GIB

A passion for futsal? and become a part of the game ⚽️

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⚽️ | Stay INVOLVED in football
📆 | Referee around YOUR schedule
😁 | Grow CONFIDENCE and LEADERSHIP skills

Interested? Join us now! ⏰

ℹ️ - gibraltarfa.com/referees

, and become part of the game! ⚽️

💷 | Earn FEES through the game you love
⚽️ | Stay INVOLVED in football
📆 | Referee around YOUR schedule
😁 | Grow CONFIDENCE and LEADERSHIP skills

Interested? Join us now! ⏰

ℹ️ - gibraltarfa.com/referees