Serie A’s referee chief and VAR supervisor Andrea Gervasoni self-suspend amid a widening sporting fraud investigation
Italian football has been hit by another institutional earthquake.
Gianluca Rocchi, head of referee assignments for Serie A and Serie B, has officially self-suspended after being placed under investigation by prosecutors in Milan for alleged complicity in sporting fraud.
VAR supervisor Andrea Gervasoni has also stepped aside, adding another layer to a crisis that is shaking the credibility of Italy’s refereeing system.
Rocchi Steps Back
Rocchi said the decision was made “for the good of the CAN group” and to allow referees to continue working without external pressure.
He continues to deny any wrongdoing.
“I am certain I acted correctly,” Rocchi said, adding that he expects to emerge from the legal process “stronger than before.”
His questioning is scheduled for April 30.
What Prosecutors Are Looking At
The investigation reportedly focuses on alleged interference in referee appointments and VAR decisions during the 2024–25 season.
Among the key episodes under scrutiny are:
- the referee assignment for Bologna–Inter
- the handling of Daniele Doveri’s appointment in the Coppa Italia
- a VAR review in Udinese–Parma
- a separate case involving Gervasoni and Salernitana–Modena
Rocchi’s lawyer has challenged the structure of the accusations, arguing that the alleged co-conspirators have not been clearly identified.
Inter Responds
Inter president Beppe Marotta strongly rejected any implication involving the club.
“We don’t have referees we like or dislike,” he said before Torino–Inter. “We act correctly. Inter is calm and has nothing to do with this.”
Marotta also stressed that the club remains focused on securing what he called a deserved Scudetto.
Pressure on the System
The case has reopened broader questions about transparency inside Italian football.
Sports minister Andrea Abodi called for clarity, speed, and equal treatment, saying that if responsibilities are established, “there must be consequences.”
Meanwhile, Serie A officials have urged caution, warning that the regularity of the championship should not be questioned without evidence.
A Crisis Beyond One Man
This is no longer just about Rocchi.
The investigation arrives during a fragile moment for Italian football, with the AIA already under pressure and the FIGC facing calls for reform. Between legal probes, internal divisions, and public mistrust, the refereeing system is now under the microscope.
For now, Rocchi has stepped aside.
But the real battle — legal, sporting, and political — is just beginning.
