Study on the Physical Activity of Referees and Assistant Referees at the 2022 Qatar World Cup: A Secondary Data-Based Analysis Using FIFA Technical Reports and Peer-Reviewed Research

Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the physical activity demands of referees and assistant referees during the 2022 FIFA World Cup through a structured secondary analysis. The objective was to identify role-specific workload characteristics and assess performance changes under compressed match schedules. Research design, data, and methodology: A total of 30 peer-reviewed articles and official FIFA-issued technical reports were reviewed. Key performance indicators included total distance covered, sprint frequency, high-speed running, lateral movement patterns, and performance variations between halves. A triangulation approach was used to synthesize validated institutional and academic sources in the absence of individual tracking data. Results: Referees demonstrated greater overall locomotor output, including longer distances and more high-speed runs, due to their full-pitch coverage responsibilities. Assistant referees engaged in concentrated short sprints and lateral accelerations within restricted sideline zones. Both roles exhibited significant second-half declines in performance metrics, indicating cumulative fatigue under limited recovery conditions. Conclusion: The findings highlight distinct physiological demands by role and underscore the importance of tailored conditioning, recovery planning, and match appointment strategies. Despite limitations inherent to secondary data, this study offers a credible document-based analysis that supports referee performance development and strategic management in elite football competitions.