In a significant move to combat violence against officials, referees in Serie A will be seen sporting a black mark on their cheeks during matches over the 15th week of the 2024-25 season. This initiative is part of a larger campaign organized by the AIA, Italy’s football referee association, in response to the increasing incidents of abuse directed at match officials across all levels of the sport.
The decision comes in light of disturbing reports, including a recent incident where a young referee sustained a fractured elbow following a violent altercation during a category three match near Perugia. AIA President Carlo Pacifici emphasized the importance of this symbol, stating that it aims to raise awareness about the ‘social plague’ of referee abuse, highlighting the need for respect towards officials in football.
The first official to display the black mark is referee Rosario Abisso, who will officiate Inter’s home match against Parma on Friday night. His actions will pave the way for his fellow referees to follow suit throughout the weekend’s fixtures.
Prior to this campaign, players had participated in a separate initiative where they marked their faces in red to support a fight against domestic violence, showing how the league is committed to addressing various societal issues.
This new symbol of solidarity emphasizes the collective effort within Italian football to ensure officials feel safe and respected in their roles. By shining a light on this serious issue, Serie A aims to foster a culture of respect and protect those who officiate the games we love.
In summary, through this gesture, Serie A is taking a proactive stance against violence toward referees and promoting respect for the important role they play in the game. This initiative may inspire similar actions in other sports and leagues, further reinforcing the message that all participants in sports deserve to feel safe and supported.