sports
February 2, 2026
‘When a match is going well, smile’: inside the scheme helping ethnic minority referees
Core X programme is working to lift match officials from underrepresented communities into the professional game
TL;DR
- The Core X programme, launched in 2023, is designed to help referees from underrepresented ethnic communities reach the professional game.
- It is a collaboration between the Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO), the Football Association (FA), and the advocacy group Bamref.
- The program provides structured support, exposure, and training to talented officials.
- Historically, Black, Asian, and mixed-heritage referees have been underrepresented in the professional system.
- In 2021, a report found the FA's system undermined efforts by Black and Asian officials to reach the top.
- Since then, observers have received EDI training, and referees can provide feedback on development and misconduct.
- Black, Asian, and mixed-heritage representation in the professional game now stands at nearly 7.5%.
- The program includes off-pitch elements such as nutrition, human rights discussions, and physical conditioning.
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