The Academy will be designed to educate and increase the expertise of national and international esports referees.

It has been created to support the integrity of esports and contribute to the success of athletes, teams and events on the world stage.  

"Referees are the front-line of all of our member federations," said IESF President Colin Webster.

"As such, the IESF is committed to capacitating referees to the best of its ability to ensure the long-term growth and sustainability of esports.” 

The curriculum has been developed by the IESF, together with game publishers, in an effort to ensure that it meets the highest standards.  

Member Federations have been able to nominate candidates for the course, which is scheduled to begin on February 24. 

It will also be made available to National Federations for use in training referees for national competitions.