Collina Defends FIFA Referees Amid World Cup Controversy: 'Not Even Infantino Can Influence Decisions'
Translated from Greek, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
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- FIFA's Head of Refereeing, Pierluigi Collina, addressed controversy over officiating in the Argentina-Egypt match.
- Collina defended the independence of referees and VAR, stating no one, not even FIFA President Gianni Infantino, can influence decisions.
- The statement comes amid intense reactions to refereeing choices during the 2026 World Cup.
Pierluigi Collina, FIFA's General Director of Refereeing, has publicly defended the integrity of officiating in the wake of controversy surrounding the Argentina-Egypt match. Intense reactions have followed refereeing decisions during the 2026 World Cup fixture, prompting a strong response from the sport's governing body.
Collina asserted the unwavering independence of referees and the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system. He unequivocally stated that no individual, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino, possesses the power to influence match officiating. This defense aims to quell concerns about potential bias and uphold confidence in the refereeing process.
The statement seeks to reassure stakeholders and fans that decisions on the field are made impartially, free from external pressure. FIFA remains committed to ensuring fair play and maintaining the highest standards of refereeing throughout the tournament.
Not even Infantino can influence FIFA refereeing.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by Ta Nea in Greek. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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