The report says Elfath had to satisfy ’s physical standards before re-entering consideration.
A certified US Soccer representative reportedly supervised the assessment in Texas, while Elfath’s assistant referees were present because officials are selected as teams. That level of monitoring underlines the physical demands placed on elite referees and the narrow margin for anyone returning from a long injury absence.
The report says Elfath survived a cut to the North American candidate list in December 2025 before attending a final seminar in Rio de Janeiro. Further physical and technical testing followed.
Previous tournament experience helps, but it does not guarantee a place. Elfath worked at the 2022 World Cup and served as fourth official for the final, yet his Qatar performances still attracted scrutiny over major decisions. The report also notes that Daniel Siebert was chosen for a Champions League final but overlooked for the tournament, while Felix Zwayer was selected instead.
Those examples show why referee appointments remain open to debate. One disputed decision, injury or change in the tournament bracket can reshape the picture.
Elfath’s next challenge will be turning selection into trusted performances. If his place is confirmed, every appointment will be judged against his recovery story, his Qatar experience and the intense scrutiny that comes with officiating football’s biggest matches.