Mon Jun 02 04:39:26 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten version as a news article:

**Summary:**

Two Chennai-based football referees, R. Venkatesh and P. Vairamuthu, have been recognized by the All-India Football Federation (AIFF) for their excellence. Venkatesh received the “best male referee award” for the second successive year, while Vairamuthu won the “best assistant referee award.” Both friends started their refereeing journey together in 2009, became national referees in 2014, and later achieved international status. They believe the introduction of VAR in India would significantly improve referee development.

**News Article:**

**Chennai Referees Honored with Top AIFF Awards**

**Chennai, June 2, 2025** – Chennai’s football community is celebrating the achievements of two of its own, R. Venkatesh and P. Vairamuthu, who were both honored at the All-India Football Federation (AIFF) awards ceremony in Bhubaneswar earlier this year. Venkatesh was awarded the “best male referee” for the second consecutive year, a testament to his consistent and decisive on-field performance. Vairamuthu, known for his supportive role and keen observation, received the “best assistant referee” award.

The two friends, residents of Perambur and Pulianthope, began their refereeing careers together, becoming Tamil Nadu referees in 2009 and earning national recognition in 2014. Venkatesh achieved international referee status in 2018, followed by Vairamuthu the following year.

“It feels great to receive the AIFF award for the second successive year. It was because of my consistency and solid decision-making abilities,” says Venkatesh

“Of course, It feels great,” says Vairamuthu, who got the award in 2019, was happy to receive it again.

Both referees expressed their enthusiasm for participating in more international tournaments and highlighted the potential benefits of introducing VAR (Video Assistant Referee) technology in India. They believe VAR would accelerate the development of Indian referees, enhancing accuracy and fairness in match officiating.

The awards are a source of pride for Chennai and a recognition of the dedication and skill of these two outstanding football officials.

Read More