FIFA Removes Officials After Controversial Call in Barcelona vs. Inter Milan Clash
FIFA has taken the rare step of dismissing the refereeing team from the recent Champions League semi-final between FC Barcelona and Inter Milan. This decision follows an intense backlash after a dangerous challenge on young Barcelona star Lamine Yamal went unpunished.
The match, hosted at San Siro, drew criticism due to several controversial calls. The most debated moment came when Inter’s Henrikh Mkhitaryan fouled Yamal in what many believed was clearly inside the penalty area. However, after consulting VAR, referee Szymon Marciniak ruled the contact occurred outside the box, resulting in a free kick rather than a penalty.
Barcelona’s coach Hansi Flick and midfielder Pedri were vocal in their disapproval, with Flick calling the decision “incomprehensible” and Pedri labeling it a “travesty.”
Following a detailed review, FIFA’s Referees Committee removed the officiating team from the tournament, citing the importance of fair play and player safety. The ruling was met with approval across the football world but also reignited discussions on the reliability of VAR and the need for greater transparency in officiating decisions.
Barcelona’s exit from the tournament under such disputed circumstances has fueled calls for reforms in football refereeing, including public explanations from referees post-match, similar to practices in other major sports.
