Chinese referees reached a significant milestone at the 2026 FIFA World Cup when Ma Ning, Zhou Fei, and Fu Ming officiated the Group E match between Ecuador and Curacao on Saturday at Kansas City Stadium. The game ended in a 0-0 draw, with Ma Ning serving as the main referee, Zhou as an assistant referee, and Fu as the video assistant referee (VAR).

Ma Ning’s role marked the first time a Chinese referee had taken charge of a World Cup match since 2002, highlighting a notable return for Chinese officials on football’s global stage after more than two decades. During the game, Ma issued a total of six yellow cards—one to Ecuador and five to Curacao—demonstrating a firm but controlled officiating approach.

The appointment of the three Chinese officials to the same match reflected FIFA’s recognition of the progress made by referees from China in recent years. FIFA’s chief refereeing officer, Pierluigi Collina, emphasized that the chosen referees were among the world’s best when the tournament officials were announced. The 2026 World Cup refereeing team is the largest in the competition’s history, comprising 52 referees, 88 assistant referees, and 30 video match officials drawn from all six football confederations and representing 50 member associations.

FIFA conducted a rigorous selection process spanning over three years, focused on a “quality first” principle. Candidates were evaluated based on their performances at FIFA tournaments, international matches, and domestic leagues. Additional criteria included fitness levels, health, consistency, and match management abilities. Leading up to the final appointments, officials took part in seminars and were continuously assessed during various competitions.

For the Chinese referees, Saturday’s participation illustrated a steady rise in their international presence. Ma Ning and Fu Ming had previously officiated at the expanded FIFA Club World Cup in 2025. Additionally, Ma, Fu, Zhou, and fellow referee Zhang Cheng were part of the officiating team at the 2024 AFC Asian Cup final held in Qatar.

Ma Ning’s involvement in the 2026 tournament also marked a personal advancement, as he moved from his role as a fourth official in the 2022 World Cup to the center of the action as the main referee in 2026. This progression underscores his reputation as one of Asia’s top referees and highlights the increasing prominence of Chinese officials in international football.