Trustin Farrugia Cann has announced his retirement from refereeing as he prepares to take up the role of vice-president at the Malta Football Association. The former FIFA international referee will step into the position following an uncontested nomination for the post.
Earlier this year, Farrugia Cann confirmed that he had submitted his candidacy for the vacant vice-president role. When nominations closed on 30 September, he was the sole candidate, clearing the way for his entry into the Malta FA’s top administration. His appointment will be formally ratified during the local governing body’s General Assembly meeting on Thursday.
Farrugia Cann will replace Maria Azzopardi, who earlier this year took over from Dr Angelo Chetcuti as Malta FA General Secretary. The new vice-president expressed his gratitude and reflected on a career spanning 24 years.
“After 24 unforgettable years in refereeing, 10 of which on the FIFA International List, it’s time to hang up the whistle,” Farrugia Cann wrote on social media. He highlighted his experiences officiating in major competitions, including the UEFA Europa League Group Stages, UEFA Conference League Group Stages, FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, UEFA EURO Qualifiers, UEFA Nations League, and two UEFA final tournaments.
He also noted several personal milestones, including being named Malta FA Best Referee a record six consecutive times, representing Malta in 47 different UEFA member associations, and becoming the first Maltese referee to obtain a VAR licence and officiate a match using VAR, Turkey versus Faroe Islands in Istanbul.
Farrugia Cann paid tribute to the support he received throughout his career. “None of this would have been possible without the support of so many, my colleagues, mentors, friends, and, above all, my family. Thank you all for being part of this incredible journey,” he said.
Looking ahead, he said: “As one chapter closes, another exciting one begins. I look forward to continuing to serve the game I love from a new perspective. Time for the next adventure.”
The appointment of Trustin Farrugia Cann marks a new era for the Malta FA as the association welcomes his experience and leadership into its executive team.
