Wiretaps Reveal Rocchi's Frustration Over Alleged Inter Pressure on Referee Choices

Milan, Italy — Ekhbary News Agency

Explosive wiretaps have shed light on the candid frustrations of Italian referee designator Gianluca Rocchi, who reportedly lamented intense pressure from Inter Milan regarding the selection of match officials. These details, published by Corriere della Sera, surface as the Milan Public Prosecutor's Office prepares to dismiss the inquiry involving Rocchi and the club. The conversations paint a vivid picture of the behind-the-scenes dynamics in top-tier football officiating, revealing a degree of influence that, to be frank, raises significant questions about impartiality.

Allegations of Club Influence on Referee Selections

A key point of contention revolved around the choice of referee for the Verona-Inter match scheduled for May 3, 2025. In a call on April 29 with colleague Andrea Gervasoni, Rocchi openly discussed the demands from the Nerazzurri camp. He explicitly stated, "Because these Inter guys are heavily breaking our balls, I was thinking… What if we swapped, and for Inter-Verona we put Piccinini instead of Sozza?" This direct quote underscores the perceived burden placed upon the designator, highlighting a clear attempt to influence specific appointments.

Unrecorded Calls and Shifting Designations

Further conversations with Riccardo Pinzani, who manages relations between the Italian Referees' Association (AIA) and clubs, confirmed Inter's discontent, relayed via their referee liaison Giorgio Schenone. Rocchi himself acknowledged the situation, stating, "I know, Inter are breaking our balls for this reason," later adding, "Yes, they called me, they broke my balls, I'm telling you." Curiously, Rocchi claimed to have received calls from Inter CEO Giuseppe Marotta or FIGC legislative head Viglione, yet these specific conversations were never intercepted by investigators. The absence of these calls, according to Corriere della Sera, might stem from the use of unmonitored lines or encrypted messaging services. The revelations also captured Rocchi's decision to alter an appointment, telling colleague Dino Tommasi, "Inter is still breaking our balls like crazy, and I prefer to put someone who is clean with Inter," suggesting a desire to avoid further controversy. The ongoing scrutiny of these interactions continues to shape public perception of fairness in the sport.