In Geneva, from 31 September to 2 September, there was a summer UEFA initial training course for referees of the most important categories ahead of the 2026/27 season.

93 referees took part in the seminar, representing 38 national associations. The number of participants has increased to FIFA Elite and First Category referees.

Ukraine was represented at the international gathering by Mykola Balakin and Oleksiy Derevinsky. Two Ukrainian referees successfully passed the theoretical test for knowledge of the Rules of Gri, as well as a physical test.

During the course, the referees analyzed the results of the matches in the last season and learned about the main guidelines and recommendations of UEFA for the new campaign.

The organizers paid special tribute to the physical readiness of the judges. The tests made it possible to evaluate his state before the start of the new season of European Cup tournaments.

For Balakin and Derevinsky, participation in the Geneva seminar became part of their preparation for work on the international level in the 2026/27 season.