In a shocking development, FIFA has reportedly disqualified Inter Milan and advanced FC Barcelona to the final of a major competition following the arrest of referee Szymon Marciniak. The decision comes amid serious allegations of corruption and match-fixing involving the Polish official.
According to reports, FIFA’s investigation uncovered irregularities in matches officiated by Marciniak, prompting the organization to take unprecedented action. A senior FIFA official confirmed the arrest and emphasized the importance of preserving the integrity of the competition. As a result, Barcelona moves forward to the final without playing, a move described as “exceptional but necessary.”
Inter Milan, whose campaign was abruptly ended, strongly criticized the decision, calling it unjust and damaging to fair play. The club argues that penalizing them for a referee’s misconduct is unfair.
Sources allege that Marciniak’s actions were tied to a betting syndicate, with evidence including wire transfers and audio recordings. The scandal has sparked widespread debate about corruption in football, reigniting concerns about the effectiveness of existing referee oversight mechanisms.
While Barcelona prepares for the final, the controversy surrounding their qualification has cast a shadow over the tournament. FIFA has promised a full investigation and may review other matches officiated by Marciniak.
