The 2026 World Cup Amid Controversy and Bitterness: Pierluigi Collina Pulls Out His Very Own Red Card

The atmosphere surrounding the 2026 World Cup has become tense after three controversies unfolded within just a few days: the Balogun case and the controversial suspended sentence, the furious protests following Argentina‑Egypt by coach Hassan and his players, and finally the contested appointment of Argentine referee Facundo Tello for the France–Morocco match. This triangle of tensions has poisoned the atmosphere of the tournament, fueling suspicions and accusations, especially against FIFA and the match officials.

In this context, Pierluigi Collina has chosen to intervene decisively. The FIFA Chief Refereeing Officer gave an interview to FIFA’s official channels that amounts to a veritable red card against the insinuations of recent days. Collina began with a statistic: 96 matches already played, 50% more than in Qatar 2022: “A massive volume, which inevitably brings with it mistakes, debates, and controversial interpretations,” he said.

“No one can question the integrity of the World Cup referees,” the former referee from the Viareggio Section stated firmly. Unfounded accusations provoke reactions that lead to threats against them and their families. This is unacceptable. No one can influence the FIFA Referees Committee, not even President Infantino himself.”

The match between Argentina and Egypt is the one that has fueled the most controversy, but Collina openly defended referee Letexier’s performance: “Attia’s foul on Lisandro Martinez is clear, unambiguous, and sufficient for an on-field review. The incident between Salah and Alvarez, on the other hand, was normal contact during play and therefore not punishable. A foul is a foul. If the referee doesn’t see it, VAR can intervene. Referees’ decisions are transparent: like players and coaches, they always try to do their best.”