FIFA's Chief Refereeing Officer, Pierluigi Collina, has strongly dismissed allegations that match officials have been influenced to favour Argentina during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The allegations emerged after Egypt's Round of 16 defeat to Argentina, with Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan questioning several key refereeing decisions that went against his side.

Hassan expressed frustration over a goal ruled out for Egypt and a penalty appeal that was waved away in stoppage time before Argentina scored the decisive winner.

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He claimed there had been pressure on French referee François Letexier and described the result as unfair.

Responding to the allegations, Collina insisted that FIFA's referees operate with complete independence and are not subject to influence from any individual, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

"Nobody can claim that FIFA refereeing can be influenced by anyone, not even by FIFA President Gianni Infantino. He has always shown his full support for FIFA Team One while trusting us to work with complete independence," Collina said in a statement.

The former Italian referee also defended the integrity of match officials, emphasising that referees, like players and coaches, strive to make the best decisions under pressure.

"Match officials make honest decisions and, just like players and coaches, they always try to do their best. Of course, constructive discussion about decisions will always be part of football, but unfounded allegations have no place in our sport."

PAH/MA

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