The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) President, Gabriele Gravina, has suggested placing the Italian Referees’ Association (AIA) under external management until a new leader is chosen. The AIA itself acknowledges that it is navigating a “complex and delicate phase.”
The association has been troubled by a string of controversies, most notably the ongoing investigation into refereeing designator Gianluca Rocchi for alleged sporting fraud. This case is still in its early stages and its scope is expanding.
It was recently announced that the AIA President, Antonio Zappi, has been removed from his post. This decision follows a 13-month ban he received in January for allegedly pressuring Serie C and D officials to resign in December 2024. Although Zappi has appealed the ban, which could be a lengthy process, the decision was made to relieve him of his duties.
Outgoing Federation President Gravina’s proposal to appoint an external administrator with a special commissioner aims to implement reforms and stabilize the AIA. This move requires the approval of the CONI (Italian Olympic Committee) commission, which oversees sports in Italy.
In a statement, the AIA expressed gratitude to Zappi for his “dedication during his term.” The association confirmed its intention to proceed with elections for a new President, but also stated that it is currently experiencing a “particularly complex and delicate phase” in light of recent events.
The AIA’s primary focus is on “ensuring management continuity, institutional balance, and protecting the general interest of the refereeing system.” Their goal is to safeguard the efforts of referees, maintain technical facilities, and ensure the regularity of the upcoming season.
“The AIA is a fundamental asset of Italian football and, at this stage, requires the utmost commitment to ensure balance and full respect for institutions.”
English Translation
The Italian Referees’ Association (AIA) is facing the possibility of being placed under external administration, with the appointment of a special commissioner, following a series of scandals. FIGC President Gabriele Gravina has proposed this measure until a new President is elected, acknowledging the AIA’s current “complex and delicate phase.”
The association has been shaken by recent controversies, including refereeing designator Gianluca Rocchi being formally investigated for potential sporting fraud. The case is still in its initial stages and is reportedly widening.
AIA President Antonio Zappi has been removed from office after receiving a 13-month ban in January. The ban was imposed due to allegations of pressuring Serie C and D officials to resign in December 2024. While Zappi has appealed this decision, which could lead to a prolonged process, his removal from the role has been finalized.
Gravina’s proposal aims to bring in a special commissioner to oversee external administration, facilitating reforms and introducing stability. The official confirmation of this move is contingent on the verdict of the CONI commission, the body responsible for overseeing all sports in Italy.
The AIA released a statement thanking Zappi for his service. They confirmed their desire to hold elections for a new President but also admitted to navigating a “particularly complex and delicate phase” due to recent events.
The AIA’s stated priorities include “ensuring management continuity, institutional balance, and protecting the general interest of the refereeing system.” This is intended to preserve the work of referees, technical resources, and the smooth running of the next season.
The association emphasized that “The AIA represents a fundamental asset of Italian football and requires, at this stage, the utmost commitment to ensure balance and full respect for the institutions.”