To lead this group, the Japan Football Association has signed a contract with Mike Riley as Referee Development Director starting from January 1, 2026. Riley will oversee all operations under the Development Group.
About Development Group
Purpose/Role: A special group to identify, select, and develop young referees with the aim of continually producing high-quality J1 referees. The group consists of two projects - ERDP (Elite Referee Development Panel) and TID (Talent Identification)
Launched: January 2026
Director: Mike Riley (Profile) .....
JFA審判委員会に「ディベロップメントグループ」を新設 マイク・ライリー氏と審判育成ダイレクター契約を締結 #jfa https://t.co/IUReeFz7Un pic.twitter.com/YQVYgO0wcl
— 日本サッカー協会 (@JFA) February 5, 2026
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