Refereeing Legend Victor Gomes Hangs Up the Whistle After Stellar Career

• The most ominous open secret of the year in the South African football has been confirmed
• The legendary referee Victor Gomes, both feared and revered equally, has formally retired
• He had just completed his official duties impressively at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar

If there is a perfect time to call it quits, do so after doing an excellent job at the FIFA World Cup.

Strict, respected, feared and revered whistle-man Victor Gomes has done just that. Gomes has retired shortly after returning from impressing in his duties at the 2022 edition in Qatar.

As reported by Voice of Africa, Gomes represented the continent alongside compatriot Zakhele Siwela, Janny Sikazwe (Zambia), Mustapha Ghorbal (Algeria), Salima Mukansanga (Rwanda), Bakary Gassama (Gambia) and Maguette Ndiaye (Senegal).

According to The Citizen, Gomes said on Marawa Sports Worldwide:

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“The dream started when I was only a child. Now that I’ve achieved the World Cup, I’m grateful and ready to spend time with my family. The eight-hour flight was enough for me to make the decision to retire. We discussed this with my wife."

Gomes expressed belief that while he has done better than those who came before him, he wants others to improve on the work he has done.

“Football is in my blood. I will leave the field, but I will still contribute towards lifting the SA’s flag high.”

Gomes was the man in the middle during France's 4-1 thumping of Australia, and Spain's shock loss to Japan. He was also the fourth official in the dramatic quarter-final match between eventual champions Argentina and the Netherlands.

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In February, Gomes was the referee in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations final between winners Senegal and Egypt.

Gomes reportedly hanging his whistle

The South African refereeing fraternity has been blindsided by a stunning rumour regarding an iconic football official.

Victor Gomes is reportedly considering retiring from the job, on the conclusion of his duties at the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Citing a source, the Daily Sun stated Gomes could look to become involved in the family business, Sports Brief has reported.