Aston Villa now know who will take charge of their Premier League opener against Brighton & Hove Albion, with Peter Bankes appointed as referee for Sunday’s fixture.
Unai Emery’s side travel to the Amex Stadium on Sunday, 23 August as they begin their 2026/27 league campaign following a summer of major changes at Villa Park.
The Premier League has officially confirmed the full refereeing team for the opening weekend.
Bankes will take charge on the pitch, with Ian Hussin and Wade Smith serving as his assistants.
Brighton vs Aston Villa referee and VAR confirmed
Michael Salisbury has been appointed as fourth official for the match.
Matt Donohue will oversee VAR, with Craig Taylor acting as assistant VAR.
Villa kick off against Brighton at 2pm BST on Sunday, with the game being shown live on Sky Sports.
Supporters looking for full broadcast information can find the Brighton vs Aston Villa TV channel, streaming and kick-off details here.
Sunday’s fixture already contains several major selection questions for Emery.
Zion Suzuki has now officially completed his move from Parma, while Matteo Ruggeri has also joined from Atletico Madrid.
Ezri Konsa is set to leave for Arsenal after Villa agreed a £50million deal, adding another complication to Emery’s defensive plans before the trip south.
Brighton have also strengthened this week.
Read Aston Villa reported on Wednesday that the Seagulls had signed 41-goal striker Promise David, potentially giving Fabian Hürzeler another attacking option for Sunday’s meeting.
The Premier League fixture list confirms Brighton against Villa as one of two 2pm games being shown live on Sky Sports on Sunday.
With the officials now confirmed, attention will increasingly turn towards team news and Emery’s starting XI as Villa prepare to begin another Premier League campaign.
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