Collina defends referees after Deschamps' criticism
Pierluigi Collina, FIFA's director of refereeing, responded to Didier Deschamps' concerns following France's 2-1 win over Spain in the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals. The French manager had questioned some refereeing decisions. Collina stated that 'our referees are world-class' and emphasized their rigorous preparation.
Last result: France 2-0 Morocco (2026-07-09).
What did Collina say about the referees?
Collina noted that FIFA referees undergo intensive training and continuous evaluation. He added that controversial decisions are part of football, but referees work tirelessly to minimize errors. 'We have strict protocols to ensure fairness,' he said.
Why did Deschamps criticize the refereeing?
Deschamps had highlighted a refereeing decision during the Spain match, believing it could have influenced the outcome. However, he also acknowledged the overall quality of refereeing in the tournament. 'We must accept that football remains a human sport,' he conceded.
What's next for the France team?
France, riding a five-game winning streak, prepares for their next match against Türkiye on September 25, 2026. Les Bleus aim to maintain their momentum after their recent 2-0 victory over Morocco.
