Italian referee chief steps aside after sporting fraud probe in 2025

Gianluca Rocchi, Italy’s top referee assigner, suspended himself after being investigated for alleged sporting fraud during the 2024-25 season.

Referee chief takes temporary leave Gianluca Rocchi, who oversees referee assignments in Italy’s top two divisions, has chosen to step aside temporarily. The move comes after reports emerged of an investigation by prosecutors in Milan regarding possible involvement in sporting fraud during the 2024-25 campaign. The Italian Referees Association (AIA) confirmed Rocchi’s suspension following the announcement of the legal inquiry. Andrea Gervasoni, the video assistant referee supervisor for Serie A and Serie B, also voluntarily stepped back after being named in the same investigation. ## Statement from suspended official Rocchi addressed the situation through the AIA, calling his decision painful but necessary to ensure the judicial process could proceed without interference. In a prepared statement, he shared that his choice was made in consultation with his family to protect the integrity of the referee system. Rocchi expressed full confidence that the investigation would clear his name and make him stronger. He also stressed his deep commitment to the association and its officials, emphasizing that no athlete should face consequences due to his circumstances. ## Allegations against Rocchi Investigators are examining claims that Rocchi selected a referee for an Inter Milan match because the official was perceived as favorable to the club. Another area of scrutiny involves a VAR decision to overlook an elbow by an Inter player in a separate fixture. Additional accusations claim Rocchi pressured a VAR official to review a potential handball incident during Udinese’s 1-0 victory over Parma in March 2025. According to reports, the referee and VAR initially decided against awarding a penalty but changed their call, allowing Florian Thauvin to score the match’s only goal. ## Legal consequences and next steps Sporting fraud is treated as a criminal offense in Italy, with potential penalties including up to six years in prison. Rocchi has a preliminary hearing scheduled for Thursday as part of the ongoing legal process. The AIA has stated that all steps will be taken to ensure fairness and transparency throughout the investigation. Rocchi’s temporary absence aims to prevent any impact on the officials and competitions under his oversight.