Maltese referee Ishmael Barbara has been selected to take part in UEFA’s prestigious Talent & Mentor Programme for the 2026/27 season, marking another important milestone in his refereeing career.
Barbara is currently in Switzerland, where he is attending the official kick-off meeting of the programme between 20 and 23 April 2026. The initiative will run for one year and is scheduled to conclude in April 2027.
His selection follows his recent promotion to UEFA Category One, as well as UEFA’s recognition of him as a referee with strong potential to continue progressing at the international level.
The Talent & Mentor Programme is aimed at supporting some of Europe’s most promising refereeing talents through specialised guidance, technical development and exposure to elite refereeing standards. For Barbara, the opportunity represents a significant step forward as he continues to build his profile within UEFA competitions.
As part of the programme, Barbara has been assigned UEFA coach Terje Hauge, a former FIFA referee from Norway who officiated the 2006 UEFA Champions League final. Since retiring from active refereeing, Hauge has remained closely involved in UEFA’s refereeing structures, particularly in the education and development of top match officials.
His experience at the highest level of European football is expected to provide Barbara with valuable support throughout the programme.
Barbara’s appointment is also another encouraging sign for Maltese refereeing, which continues to gain recognition within UEFA circles.
The Malta FA congratulated Barbara on his selection and wished him success as he begins this important chapter in his refereeing career.
