FIFA Chief Refereeing Officer Pierluigi Collina has defended the integrity of World Cup match officials, stating that no one can question their honesty and that baseless allegations have no place in football.
Collina’s remarks came after Egypt raised objections to the refereeing following its 3-2 defeat to Argentina in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16. The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) had called for the match officials to be removed from the tournament and demanded an investigation into their decisions.
Egyptian football officials argued that two crucial decisions in the second half went against their team, allowing Argentina to stage a comeback after trailing by two goals.
Following the match, Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan claimed his team had been treated unfairly and suggested that there may have been a desire to keep the defending world champions or Lionel Messi in the tournament.
Rejecting the allegations, Collina said that constructive discussion about refereeing decisions is a normal part of football, but baseless accusations are unacceptable. He added that such allegations often lead to threats against referees and their families, which can never be justified.
Also Read: Argentina Stage Stunning Comeback to Beat Egypt 3-2 and Reach FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarterfinals
Collina further stated that FIFA’s refereeing is not influenced by anyone, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino. According to him, match officials make their decisions honestly and, like players and coaches, always strive to deliver their best performance.
Meanwhile, FIFA has also faced criticism over its decision not to enforce the automatic suspension of Folarin Balogun, who received a red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
European football governing body UEFA described the decision as “extraordinary, incomprehensible and unjustified,” while U.S. President Donald Trump has also asked FIFA to reconsider the decision.
