Italy: Referee Association President Suspended in Scandal

The National Court of the Italian Football Federation has imposed a 13-month suspension on the president of the Italian Referee Association, Antonio Zappi.

The suspension was issued for pressuring and inciting the resignation of two officials responsible for referee appointments in Serie C and Serie D, with the aim of replacing them.

Zappi allegedly sought to favor Daniele Orsato and Stefano Braschi by appointing them as heads of CAN C and CAN D.

Zappi assumed his duties on December 14, 2024, and is expected to file an appeal.