Full Breakdown
Italian Referee Chief Gianluca Rocchi Under Criminal Probe for Alleged Sports Fraud
4/28/2026, 4:06:52 AM
Core Event
On Thursday, Milan prosecutors opened a criminal investigation into Gianluca Rocchi, Serie A/B referee-designator, for alleged 2024-25 sporting fraud; he and VAR chief Andrea Gervasoni have self-suspended pending a preliminary hearing.
Background
The probe comes amid a governance crisis after Italy’s World Cup miss and the resignations of FIGC chief Gravina and coach Gattuso.
Key Figures
- Gianluca Rocchi – referee-designator for Serie A/B
- Andrea Gervasoni – VAR supervisor under investigation
- Ezio Simonelli – Serie A president
- Giuseppe Chiné – FIGC prosecutor
- AIA – Italian Referees Association
- Inter Milan – club mentioned in allegations but not charged
- Domenico Rocca – former assistant referee whose complaint triggered the probe
Timeline
- May 2025 – Former assistant referee Domenico Rocca files an AIA complaint alleging irregular referee assignments.
- 1 Mar 2025 – Udinese vs Parma: Rocchi is accused of striking the VAR glass to force a handball review that led to a penalty.
- 20 Apr 2025 – Bologna vs Inter and 23 Apr 2025 – Coppa Italia semifinal Inter vs Milan: referee selections are questioned for possible bias toward Inter.
Key Data
Sporting fraud carries up to six years; two officials are under probe.
Official Statements & Institutional Responses
The AIA confirmed Rocchi’s self-suspension. Serie A president Ezio Simonelli said the league must ensure transparency and equal treatment, and that any proven error should be penalised without harming the championship’s credibility. FIGC prosecutor Giuseppe Chiné said he may reopen disciplinary proceedings if new evidence appears.
Criticism & Fan Demands
Fans demand digital accountability and clearer referee oversight, comparing the case to the “transalpine Negreira” scandal.
Conflicting Reports & Evidentiary Gaps
Some sources cite a video of Daniele Paterna saying “it’s a penalty”; others rely on Rocca’s written complaint. No formal charge has been made against Inter Milan, and the probe remains at the judicial inquiry stage without a definitive finding.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This painful and difficult decision, shared with my family, is intended to allow the judicial process to proceed smoothly, from which I am certain I will emerge unscathed and stronger than before.” — Gianluca Rocchi, AIA
- “My great love for my association and my sense of responsibility for the role I hold lead me, above all, to protect such an important group of athletes, whom I do not want to be affected in any way by my circumstances.” — Gianluca Rocchi
- “We have a duty to guarantee that the soccer system ensures transparency and equal treatment,” — Ezio Simonelli, Serie A President
Why It Matters
The investigation fuels public debate on refereeing integrity, could prompt other European leagues to review referee appointment and VAR oversight, and tests the credibility of Italian football’s governing bodies.
Outlook
The hearing will determine charges; a conviction could trigger criminal penalties and reforms to Italy’s referee-appointment system.
