huvuddomaren

Huvuddomaren is a Swedish term that translates to "main referee" or "head referee" in English. This individual is the primary official responsible for the conduct of a sporting event, particularly in team sports like football (soccer) or ice hockey. Their role is to enforce the rules of the game, ensure fair play, and make critical decisions during the match.

The huvuddomaren has the ultimate authority on the field of play. They signal the start and end of play, award free kicks or penalties, and can issue warnings or send players off the field. Their decisions are generally final, though in some sports, video assistant refereeing (VAR) systems can be used to review certain decisions. The huvuddomaren often works with assistant referees (linjedomare) who help monitor offside lines and other aspects of the game, but the final call usually rests with the huvuddomaren. Their presence is crucial for maintaining order and the integrity of the competition.