Applications for 2026 National match officials (referees and assistant referees) are now open in the U.S. Soccer Learning Center. This process is open to those officials who meet the eligibility criteria as outlined in the 2026 Eligibility & Requirements document.
Up to 500 applications are expected to be received during this year’s process, before a Selection Committee will narrow that down to approximately 220 candidates to be invited to the 2026 National Match Official Camp, which will be held in late January 2026.
Any interested applicants are encouraged to ensure that they have read and met the eligibility requirements, and that their Learning Center profile is up to date and accurate (including a clear headshot photo) before applying.
Applications close on Tuesday, September 16, at 5:00pm ET, with no late applications accepted. For any questions, please contact referee@ussoccer.org with ‘2026 NMO Application’ in the subject line.