Ivan Kintu Bayige, an accomplished Ugandan beach soccer referee, has been shortlisted by FIFA as a potential official for the 2025 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.
If selected, Bayige will make history as the first Ugandan to officiate at the prestigious global tournament.
The biennial competition will take place in Victoria, Seychelles, from May 1 to 11, 2025. Bayige’s inclusion on the shortlist underscores his exemplary refereeing career, which began with his ascension to FIFA’s beach soccer referee ranks in 2015.
Over the years, Bayige has officiated in five Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations (BSAFCON) tournaments: Nigeria (2016), Egypt (2018, 2024), Senegal (2021), and Mozambique (2022). His stellar performances in these high-profile continental events have also earned him invitations to global beach soccer assignments, including tournaments in Dubai.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has seven referees on FIFA’s long list, of which five will ultimately be selected to represent the continent in Seychelles.
Joining Bayige on the shortlist are referees from Tunisia, Burundi, Morocco, Senegal, and Mauritius.
