FIFA referee chief Pierluigi Collina rejects bias claims at World Cup
FIFA refereeing chief Pierluigi Collina has defended the integrity of match officials after Egypt accused them of bias in favor of Argentina.
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FIFA’s chief refereeing officer, Pierluigi Collina, has firmly rejected allegations that match officials are being influenced by external factors following claims of bias towards Argentina at the 2026 World Cup. The controversy stems from comments made by Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan, who accused referee Francois Letexier of unfair treatment during their round-of-16 defeat.
Hassan expressed deep frustration after a second goal for his side was disallowed following a VAR check, and he also felt his team was denied a late penalty. He suggested that there was pressure on the referee which led to the unfavorable outcome for his side.
Nobody can claim that FIFA refereeing can be influenced by anyone, not even by the FIFA president. Match officials make honest decisions and, just like players and coaches, they always try to do their best. Pierluigi Collina
Collina, a former World Cup final referee, emphasized that match officials work with complete independence. He warned that unfounded allegations are not only damaging to the sport but can also lead to threats against officials and their families. Regarding the disputed VAR decision, Collina clarified that if a foul is identified in the build-up to a goal, the system is designed to intervene regardless of the distance or time elapsed.
Maintaining the integrity of the tournament remains a top priority for FIFA, as these allegations spark intense debate regarding the role of VAR and the perceived neutrality of officials in high-stakes matches.