The Cayman Islands has strengthened its presence on the international football stage, with eight officials now on FIFA’s 2026 International Referees List – the most on the panel at one time.
FIFA confirmed this week that two new assistant referees, Kevon Harris and Anny Arriaga Zuniga, have been added to the list for the upcoming cycle.
Both joined the Cayman Islands Referee Association in 2023 and will now be eligible for selection to officiate FIFA-sanctioned international matches.
Their appointments bring Cayman’s total number of FIFA-listed officials to eight, joining Benjamin Whitty, Kedeen Foster, Michael Akangou, Jonathon Hughes, Dwight Cummings and DeeAnn Foster, all of whom retained their FIFA badges for 2026.
Whitty, who also serves as the Cayman Islands Football Association (CIFA)’s competitions, registrations and club licensing officer, described the expanded representation as a source of pride for the local refereeing community.
“It’s an absolute pleasure to have been selected for another year on the FIFA list, and to have two new additions within our small team fills me with a lot of joy and pride,” he said.
Whitty retained his place on the list following a standout year that included officiating at the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup and earning a place on the pre-selection list for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
He said the latest appointments reflected the strength of Cayman’s referee development pathways and the importance of mentorship.
For Harris, the appointment marks a significant milestone after transitioning into officiating following his playing career.
“Becoming a FIFA assistant referee is a reward for my dedication, discipline, determination and sacrifice,” he said.
“It is an absolute honour to represent the Cayman Islands and I vow to give this opportunity my very best.”
Zuniga’s inclusion also represents a notable step for women’s officiating locally and within the region.
She said she hopes her journey encourages more women to pursue opportunities in football at all levels.
“As a 35-year-old woman, I’m proud to show that women can be accomplished in football at every level,” she said.
Veteran assistant referee Dwight Cummings, who has held a FIFA badge since 2019, welcomed the new additions while congratulating those who retained their status.
“I am deeply passionate about contributing to the sport of football, and I am proud to represent the Cayman Islands on the international stage,” he said.
“I congratulate all my colleagues who have maintained their badge and extend a special welcome to those who have made the FIFA panel for the first time.”
