"Not at all": the best referee in the world in 2020 explains his refusal to work in Russia

The famous Italian football referee Daniele Orsato explained that he refused to work in Russia because of the country's aggression against Ukraine. The 48-year-old referee, who retired after the 2024 European Championships, did not agree to be a consultant to the Russian Football Union (RFU).

Orsato, who was recognized as the best referee in the world in 2020, said this in an interview with La Repubblica. According to him, he did receive a lucrative offer to join the RFU's expert judicial commission, but he did not accept it because of the "current socio-political situation."

"Am I going to Russia? Actually, no. I was asked to cooperate as an expert arbitrator with the Russian Federation as part of a large technical group. I was very pleased with the invitation. However, in light of the current socio-political situation and the ethical principles that have always guided me, both on and off the field, I decided not to accept this offer," Orsato said.

It is interesting that the Italian specialist would not even have to travel to Russia - he could do all his work remotely. It should be noted that the RFU refereeing department has been headed by Serbian Milorad Majic since last summer. He is known for refereeing the Champions League final match in Kyiv in 2018, when Real Madrid beat Liverpool 3-1.

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