The Football Association (The FA) has announced a significant step forward in the use of communication technology for match officials.

In a move designed to enhance officiating standards, the FA has extended the use of communication equipment to referees operating at Step 2 level, as well as those officiating in the National League North and South competitions.

For the women's game, communication technology will be used in Tier 1 and Tier 2 competitions, or by Development Group referees, further aligning with the FA’s commitment to improving the standard of refereeing across all levels of the game.

Referees and officials are reminded that the use of communication equipment outside of the specified competitions requires prior approval from the FA Refereeing Department. Requests can be submitted via email to facompreferee@thefa.com.

This initiative, in collaboration with the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), is part of the Elite Referee Development Plan and aims to improve match-day communication and performance monitoring for referees.

In addition to Step 2 referees, the use of communication kits will also be rolled out to referees in the National Development Group, including those officiating in Step 3/4 matches. These referees, though outside the traditional merit table pathway, will still benefit from this technology as part of their professional development.