Football is one of the most popular sports globally, and it requires a team of officials to ensure fair play and maintain discipline on the pitch. The referees play a crucial role in enforcing the rules of the game and making crucial decisions that can change the outcome of a match. But have you ever wondered how much money football referees earn for their services in Namibia?
In Namibia, football referees' pay differs depending on the league they officiate in and their roles in the game.
In football referees in the Debmarine Premiership earn N$400 per match as centre referees, while assistant referees earn N$350 per match.
In the lower leagues, the pay rate is significantly lower, with centre and assistant referees in the first division earning N$150 per match. Meanwhile, those in the second division earn N$100 per game, which is significantly lower than what their counterparts in the top league earn.
In women's football, the pay rate for referees is slightly lower than that of men's football.
In the First National Bank (FNB) Women Super League (WSL), the centre referees earn N$300 per match, while assistant referees get N$250 per match. The fourth official, whose role is to assist the referee in making substitutions and managing technical areas, pockets N$300 per match.
While football referees' earnings may seem relatively low, it is essential to note that most of these officials have other jobs or businesses that generate income for them.
If you want to be part of this work, you have to take this job as a side hustle opportunity to give back to the sport you love.