French basketball considers three-arbitre system

The French Basketball Federation is exploring the introduction of a three-arbitre system in the Nationale 1 (NM1) division, a proposal made by Pierre-Yves Bichon, president of the Haut Niveau des Officiels (HNO), during a meeting on October 4.

Challenges in officiating NM1

Bichon mentioned that referees face "difficulties in officiating in NM1," pointing to the rising physicality, speed, and intensity of the game. These factors make it harder for officials to keep up with the pace and enforce rules effectively.

Surplus of referees in lower divisions

The proposal arises as there is an excess of referees in the third division, HN3. The number of teams in NM1 has dropped from 28 to 24, leaving 41 officials in HN3—12 more than required for the current number of teams.

Potential for multidivisional assignments

According to Bichon, a three-arbitre system could enable referees to be assigned across different divisions, offering flexibility in how officials are deployed. This might help address the surplus in lower divisions while supporting the needs of higher ones.

Review pending in future meetings

The French Basketball Federation plans to examine the proposal further during a future federal board meeting, indicating that the idea is still under consideration and not yet finalized.