The Equatoguinean Football Federation (FEGUIFUT) has warned referees based in the Continental Region of Equatorial Guinea against corruption as the national league kicks off for the 2026 season. Referees based in Bata held a meeting with the federation president regarding under-the-table dealings with clubs and other pertinent issues.

Reunión clave entre el Presidente de la FEGUIFUT con los arbitros antes del inicio de la LIFGE temporada 2025-2026https://t.co/IGP0i8gFzR pic.twitter.com/4zwbJtVkaz

— FeguifutOfficial (@NzalangNacional) February 19, 2026

According to Ahora EG, federation president Venancio Tomás Ndong warned the referees against engaging in improper dealings during the new season.

“I must warn you that the shady dealings in the National League are over. This season, many things will happen, and many teams will not want to be relegated, so they will do everything necessary to stay in the league and will try to bribe you. I don’t want any referee or match commissioner involved in these shady dealings,” Ndong said.

Equatoguinean football has received financial backing from the government for the new season, as the federation promised strong support for referees. The local football scene has experienced poor organization, as well as allegations of match-fixing and corruption, in recent times. The country’s football administrators hope to change this in the new season.

Strong Warning: Equatoguinean Federation Cracks Down on Referee Corruption Ahead of 2026 Season

The Equatoguinean Football Federation (FEGUIFUT) has issued a firm warning to referees ahead of the start of the 2026 national league season. With the new campaign approaching, federation officials are determined to tackle corruption and restore credibility to domestic football in Equatorial Guinea.

Referees based in Bata, located in the country’s Continental Region, recently held a key meeting with federation president Venancio Tomás Ndong. The discussion centered on allegations of under-the-table dealings with clubs and the need for integrity as the 2025–2026 LIFGE season kicks off.

FEGUIFUT Sends Clear Anti-Corruption Message to Referees

During the meeting, Venancio Tomás Ndong delivered a direct and uncompromising message to match officials. According to local outlet Ahora EG, the federation president warned referees against accepting bribes or engaging in any unethical behavior during the upcoming season.

“I must warn you that the shady dealings in the National League are over,” Ndong stated. “This season, many things will happen, and many teams will not want to be relegated, so they will do everything necessary to stay in the league and will try to bribe you. I don’t want any referee or match commissioner involved in these shady dealings.”

The statement underscores growing concern within FEGUIFUT regarding the integrity of domestic competitions. With relegation battles often intensifying toward the end of the season, federation leaders fear that desperate clubs may attempt to influence match outcomes.

Corruption Concerns in Equatoguinean Football

Equatoguinean football has faced recurring allegations of poor organization, match-fixing, and corruption in recent years. Critics argue that inconsistent officiating and questionable decisions have damaged the credibility of the league.

The federation’s decision to address referees directly signals an effort to confront these challenges proactively. By issuing a strong public warning before the season begins, FEGUIFUT aims to send a message that disciplinary action will follow any proven misconduct.

Integrity in refereeing is vital for maintaining competitive balance and public trust. Without impartial match officials, the legitimacy of results can quickly come into question.

Government Financial Support for the 2026 Season

In addition to disciplinary measures, Equatoguinean football has received financial backing from the national government for the new season. The federation has promised stronger institutional support for referees, including better logistical resources and improved oversight mechanisms.

Officials believe that providing adequate support and compensation for referees may reduce the temptation to engage in corrupt practices. Financial vulnerability is often cited as a contributing factor in match-fixing scandals globally.

By combining financial investment with strict warnings, FEGUIFUT hopes to create an environment where ethical conduct becomes the standard rather than the exception.