Gianluca Rocchi, the head of referee appointments in Serie A and Serie B, has suspended himself amid an investigation into alleged sporting fraud during the 2024–25 season. Rocchi is under scrutiny for alleged complicity in influencing referee selections and VAR decisions, including claims he assigned a referee favoured by Inter Milan to one of their matches. He also faces questions over a VAR incident during Udinese's 1-0 victory over Parma in March 2024, when officials reportedly hesitated before awarding a late penalty after on-field review, with Florian Thauvin converting the decisive goal. Andrea Gervasoni, the video assistant referee supervisor, has also stepped aside as he is under investigation. Rocchi issued a statement through the Italian Referees Association (AIA), saying the suspension was necessary to protect the integrity of the refereeing system. "This painful and difficult decision, shared with my family, is intended to allow the judicial process to proceed smoothly, from which I am certain I will emerge unscathed and stronger than before," Rocchi said. He emphasized his commitment to shielding the AIA from disruption, adding, "My great love for my association and my sense of responsibility for the role I hold lead me, above all, to protect such an important group, which I do not want to be affected in any way by my circumstances." A preliminary hearing is set for Thursday. The probe, confirmed by the Italian news agency AGI, includes allegations of improper influence over match officials and potential interference in key decisions. Sporting fraud is a criminal offence in Italy, punishable by up to six years in prison if proven.
A top referee official stepping down over fraud allegations exposes the vulnerability of systems meant to ensure fair play. The very person entrusted with appointing impartial referees is now central to claims of manipulation in high-stakes matches. No Nigerian or African player featured in this incident.
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