Pierluigi Collina rejects claims of World Cup refereeing influence | OneFootball

Pierluigi Collina has defended World Cup officiating amid mounting accusations of unfairness, insisting decisions are free from outside sway. 'No one can claim that refereeing is influenced by anyone, not even by FIFA president Gianni Infantino,' he said in an interview with FIFA.

'Overall, we are happy. However, with so many matches in a relatively short period, it is normal that some things do not go as planned. When that happens, referees are ready to work even harder to be fully prepared for the next match.'

'No one should question the integrity of World Cup referees. When that happens, it can lead to threats against them or their families and that is not fair.'

His remarks follow strong criticism from players and coaches at the tournament. Egypt’s Mostafa Ziko said François Letexier was not fair during Egypt’s 2-3 defeat by Argentina, and the Frenchman’s appointment had already prompted concerns in Argentina about possible partiality.

The cancellation of Folarin Balogun’s suspension for United States vs Belgium in the last 16, a 1-4 defeat, also caused a stir, on the back of intervention by Gianni Infantino at Donald Trump’s request.

Source: L'Équipe