Italy’s ongoing refereeing scandal is expanding its reach within the football league system, with new controversy surfacing in Serie C involving former top-flight referee Daniele Orsato.
According to reports from arbitri.com, which cited CalcioMercato, a formal complaint has been lodged with the FIGC Federal Prosecutor regarding the Serie C match between Ascoli and Vis Pesaro on April 4. The complaint specifically targets Orsato, who currently serves as the league’s official designator, and an alleged phone call made to the officiating crew after the game.
The core of the concern lies in the reported method of communication. Orsato is alleged to have contacted referee Giorgio Di Cicco post-match, with the call conducted on loudspeaker in the presence of other match officials and observers. Critics suggest this practice could potentially compromise the impartiality of referee performance evaluations and raise questions about the assessment process.
Complaint filed, but no immediate evidence of wrongdoing by ex-Serie A referee Orsato
However, an alternative, more favorable interpretation is also being considered. It has been suggested that Orsato’s intention was simply to commend the referee and his team for their performance, requesting the call be put on speakerphone to extend the praise to everyone collectively. The ultimate determination of whether the intent was benign or improper will likely depend on any subsequent investigation.
This latest development occurs at a sensitive juncture for Italian football, as scrutiny over refereeing structures intensifies following the high-profile case involving Serie A and B designator Gianluca Rocchi. Although these situations are distinct, the timing inevitably amplifies broader anxieties regarding governance, transparency, and consistency within the bodies responsible for officiating.
As the FIGC continues to address various issues across different levels of the sport, the resolution of this complaint could significantly impact confidence and accountability within Italy’s refereeing system.
