AI Generated Image
World Cup 2026: 'We are not influenced by anyone'
BBC • • general
Key Points:
- FIFA's chief refereeing officer Pierluigi Collina defended the integrity of World Cup match officials following the Egyptian Football Association's (EFA) request to remove referees after Egypt's 3-2 loss to Argentina, calling the allegations "unfounded."
- The EFA demanded an investigation into officiating "double standards" after two second-half foul calls went against Egypt, which helped Argentina overturn a 2-0 deficit late in the game.
- Collina emphasized that FIFA refereeing is independent and not influenced by anyone, including FIFA president Gianni Infantino, and warned that unfounded accusations can lead to threats against officials and their families.
- Specific controversial decisions included VAR disallowing an Egypt goal due to a foul by Marwan Attia and not awarding a penalty for a potential foul on Mohamed Salah; Collina supported both decisions, explaining the application of VAR protocols.
- FIFA has faced broader criticism over refereeing decisions during the tournament, including the controversial overturning of a red card ban for Folarin Balogun, prompting calls for review from UEFA and US President Donald Trump.
