Definition
Ángel María Férez (born 23 March 1966) is a Spanish former football referee and former president of the Technical Committee of Referees of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).
Overview
Férez began his refereeing career in the lower divisions of Spanish football before being appointed to officiate in La Liga, the top professional league in Spain, in 1995. He served as a La Liga referee until 2007, during which time he oversaw numerous high‑profile matches. In 2010, the RFEF appointed him as the head of its Technical Committee of Referees, a position he held until 2023. In this capacity, Férez was responsible for the recruitment, training, assessment, and disciplinary oversight of referees in Spanish football, as well as for the implementation of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system across the professional leagues.
Etymology/Origin
The given name Ángel derives from the Greek word ángelos (ἄγγελος), meaning “messenger” or “angel.” The surname Férez is of Spanish origin and is a variant of Ferrés or Ferrer, which historically denoted a metalworker or smith (from the Latin ferrum, “iron”).
Characteristics
- Professional timeline: Referee in La Liga (1995–2007); President of the RFEF Technical Committee of Referees (2010–2023).
- Key contributions: Oversaw the modernization of refereeing standards in Spain, introduced comprehensive fitness and educational programs for officials, and supervised the nationwide rollout of VAR technology.
- Public presence: Frequently appeared in media commentary on refereeing decisions and policy, and represented Spanish refereeing interests in UEFA and FIFA forums.
- Recognition: Acknowledged by the RFEF for his role in enhancing the professionalism of Spanish football officiating; no major international awards are recorded.
Related Topics
- Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF)
- La Liga (Primera División)
- Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system
- Football refereeing in Spain
- UEFA Refereeing Committee
All information presented is based on publicly available records and reputable sports publications.