Seven match officials from English football have been selected for involvement at this summer’s FIFA World Cup.
Michael Oliver and Anthony Taylor will serve as match referees for the tournament. Oliver will be supported by assistant referees Stuart Burt and James Mainwaring, while Taylor will be accompanied by Gary Beswick and Adam Nunn. In addition, Jarred Gillett has been appointed to operate in a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) role.
For James, this will represent his first FIFA World Cup appearance. Having been added to the FIFA List in 2024, he has progressed rapidly through the international pathway to earn selection for the tournament.
Jarred will also be making his World Cup debut, although he already brings significant experience at international level. He has previously served in VAR roles at the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 and earlier this year at the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, where he was appointed assistant VAR for the final.
For Michael, Anthony, Stuart, Gary and Adam, this summer’s tournament will mark their second FIFA World Cup, underlining their continued standing among the world’s leading match officials.
World Cup selection represents the highest level of officiating and reflects sustained excellence across domestic and international competitions. Having multiple officials, including two full officiating teams, appointed to this summer’s tournament is a significant achievement for English football.
