Football Federation reaffirms Zero Tolerance for violence against Referees

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF) said it strongly condemns any act of violence or abuse directed towards referees, match officials, or any other stakeholders involved in the sport of football. This statement from the SVGFF comes in the wake of a decision by SVG Referees Association to temporarily withdraw their services at football games after an incident on February 19, 2025, in a match of the National Club Championships, that left their president, Elron Lewis, nursing a cut below his left eye. The Referees Association plan to withhold their services “until adequate security protocols are put in place”.

As the governing body for football in SVG, we emphasize our unwavering zero-tolerance policy towards such actions, the release from the SVGFF emphatically states. The remainder of the release reads:

“The SVGFF fully supports the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Referees Association (SVGRA) and reaffirms our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all match officials, players, and spectators. Football thrives on respect, discipline, and fair play, and any attempt to intimidate or harm referees will not be tolerated under any circumstances. To enhance security measures at all sanctioned matches, the SVGFF will continue to implement and enforce strict security protocols, ensuring that referees and officials can perform their duties in a safe and professional environment. Security personnel will be stationed at all venues, and any breaches of conduct will be met with firm disciplinary action by the federation’s regulations.

We call on all clubs, players, and supporters to uphold the values of respect and sportsmanship, ensuring that football remains a safe and enjoyable experience for all. The SVGFF remains steadfast in its mission to protect and support its referees and will work closely with all relevant stakeholders to prevent future incidents.

We stand united with the SVG Referees Association and urge all football-loving Vincentians to do the same.”

The SVG Referees Association has had to withdraw their services before due to physical attacks on their members officiating at football matches.