Prague, Czech Republic – The Czech Football Association (FAČR) is preparing to select a new head of its refereeing commission, with the decision expected on Tuesday, April 29th, 2026. The choice comes down to current commission chairman Libor Kovařík and Spanish refereeing expert Carlos Clos Gómez, according to reports from iDNES.cz.
The appointment is considered a crucial one for Czech football, as the standard of refereeing has come under increased scrutiny in recent seasons. The FAČR’s executive committee will make the final decision, with the outcome keenly anticipated by clubs, players, and fans alike.
Carlos Clos Gómez: A Veteran of La Liga and VAR
Carlos Clos Gómez, born June 30, 1972, in Zaragoza, Spain, brings a wealth of experience to the table. He officiated in Spain’s La Liga for fifteen years and was a FIFA referee from 2009 until his retirement in 2017, as detailed by Wikipedia. Gómez is particularly known for his expertise in Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, having overseen its implementation in Spain. He has also refereed high-profile matches, including El Clásico, the intense rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona.
According to Sport.cz, Gómez’s primary task will be to assist in developing a new three-year strategy for referee management in the Czech Republic. He will work closely with Libor Kovařík, the current chairman of the commission, should Kovařík retain his position.
Gómez’s arrival is being funded by UEFA, highlighting the importance the European football governing body places on improving refereeing standards in the Czech Republic. This isn’t the first time the Czech league has looked abroad for expertise; Polish referee Michal Listkiewicz served as head of referees from July 2016.
The Stakes for Czech Refereeing
The appointment comes at a time when Czech referees haven’t consistently been selected for top European competitions. The goal is to elevate the standard of officiating and ensure Czech referees are regularly represented at the highest levels. The FAČR hopes Gómez’s experience and knowledge, particularly regarding VAR, will be instrumental in achieving this.
The introduction of VAR has been a source of controversy in many leagues, and the Czech First League is no exception. A key focus for Gómez will likely be improving the consistency and accuracy of VAR decisions, and ensuring that it is used effectively to support on-field referees.
The role of the head of the refereeing commission is a demanding one, requiring not only technical expertise but also strong leadership and communication skills. The individual selected will be responsible for overseeing the training and development of referees at all levels, as well as ensuring that the rules of the game are applied consistently and fairly.
What’s Next for Czech Football?
The FAČR executive committee is scheduled to vote on the appointment on Tuesday, April 29th, 2026. The outcome will have a significant impact on the future of refereeing in the Czech Republic. Following the decision, the newly appointed head of the commission will begin working on implementing the new three-year strategy, with a focus on education and training for Czech referees.
Fans and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the appointment impacts the quality of officiating in the Czech First League and whether it leads to increased representation of Czech referees in international competitions. The FAČR hopes that this move will usher in a new era of fairness and consistency in Czech football.
The next league match is scheduled for May 2nd, 2026, featuring Sparta Prague against Viktoria Plzeň. The performance of the referees in that match, and in subsequent games, will be closely scrutinized as the new leadership takes shape.
