T&T ref hopes World Cup selection inspires Caribbean colleagues

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC):

Caleb Wales believes his selection as part of the refereeing panel at the 2026 FIFA World Cup could inspire other referees in the region to aspire to reach similar goals.

The 37-year-old Trinidadian and Oshane Nation of Jamaica are the only two referees from the region, who have been selected to officiate in the marquee tournament, which will be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States from June 11 to July 19.

Wales will serve as an assistant referee in his second World Cup, having also officiated in the 2022 edition in Qatar.

Speaking on WESN Tv’s Face of Sports programme on Friday, Wales said his selection was a big deal for the Caribbean.

“I’m happy to be one of two Caribbean referees from the region. This is a big deal for the Caribbean.

“Hopefully, it is a stepping stone for more match officials not just from Trinidad and Tobago, but from the whole region to step up and show their worth,” Wales said.

He said he was excited to be one of 88 assistant referees selected by FIFA and was eagerly looking forward to taking part in one of the biggest sporting events in the world.

“It means a whole lot to myself and my family and all my friends and colleagues that have been supporting me throughout the journey, it is a big, big deal.

“This is my second nomination to the FIFA World Cup list and I am excited, I am happy to be part of it,” Wales said.

“From the previous World Cup I have learned a lot of things. I have seen a lot of referee mistakes, as well as points for improvement, and I’ve taken that with me along the journey and hopefully I can have a better showing in the next World Cup.”