Being a referee is one of the most difficult yet essential job in the world of football. These officials at the top end of the game receive a lot of negative attention from all quarters. Every decision they make is analyzed and scrutinized by managers, players and fans. Depending on the level, referees can earn a little or a lot for officiating a match. A league or competition looks for the best referees around the world to have them deployed in their league for the fairest conduct of the competition. The bigger the stage, the better the referees and the bigger their salaries.
Here are the top 10 highest paid football referees in the world.
| Rank | Name | Earnings per match |
| 1. | Damir Skomina | $10,000 |
| 2. | Cüneyt Çakır | $10,000 |
| 3. | Björn Kuipers | $10,000 |
| 4. | Dr. Felix Brych | $10,000 |
| 5. | Clément Turpin | $10,000 |
| 6. | Danny Makkelie | $8,000 |
| 7. | Antonio Mateu Lahoz | $8,000 |
| 8. | Daniele Orsato | $8,000 |
| 9. | Gianluca Rocchi | $8,000 |
| 10. | William Collum | $8,000 |
