FIFA Defends Referees, Dismisses Bias Claims After Argentina

FIFA has firmly rejected allegations of external influence on match officials following the controversial VAR decisions in Argentina’s Round of 16 victory over Egypt at the ongoing FIFA World Cup.

Speaking amid growing criticism, FIFA’s Chief Refereeing Officer, Pierluigi Collina, maintained that referees operate with full independence and are not subject to interference from any individual, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

Collina emphasized that questioning the integrity of referees is unacceptable, noting that such claims have led to threats against officials and their families.

“Nobody can claim that FIFA refereeing can be influenced by anyone, not even the FIFA President,” Collina stated. “Match officials make honest decisions and, like players and coaches, always strive to do their best.”

Addressing the specific VAR controversy, Collina explained that the system acted correctly in reviewing a foul committed by Egypt’s Marwan Attia on Argentina’s Lisandro Martínez during the build-up to a goal.

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He clarified that under the Laws of the Game, there is no time or distance restriction for incidents that can be reviewed if they lead to a goal.

“A foul remains a foul, regardless of how obvious it appears. If missed on the field, VAR has the authority to intervene,” he said.

He further pointed to another incident late in the match involving Mohamed Salah and Julián Álvarez, which officials deemed as normal football contact, reinforcing the consistency of decision-making.

While acknowledging that refereeing decisions will always generate debate due to a level of subjectivity, Collina expressed satisfaction with the overall application of VAR throughout the tournament.

“With 96 matches already played in this expanded World Cup, we are satisfied with the performance of match officials despite the increased workload,” he added.

FIFA reiterated its stance that constructive discussions are part of football, but baseless accusations undermine the integrity of the sport and the safety of its officials.