Italian football is once again facing a potentially disruptive investigation, one that could have serious consequences not only from a legal standpoint but also for the credibility of the sport. In recent hours, news has emerged of a probe led by the Milan Public Prosecutor’s Office, involving key figures within the refereeing system and inevitably recalling past scandals.
At the center of the case is Gianluca Rocchi, former international referee and current head of referee designations in Serie A and Serie B, who has decided to step aside from his role after being formally placed under investigation.
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Rocchi under investigation: allegations and suspension
The investigation focuses on the alleged crime of conspiracy to commit sports fraud, a serious charge that relates to possible interference in referee appointments and VAR decisions. According to reports from major sports outlets, prosecutors are trying to determine whether there were improper influences on technical decisions.
Within this framework, several key elements have emerged:
- alleged pressure on VAR officials during certain Serie A matches
- suspicion of biased referee appointments
- possible indirect advantages granted to specific teams
Rocchi has reportedly chosen to suspend himself “for the good of the group”, while firmly denying any wrongdoing and expressing his willingness to cooperate with investigators.
Other officials involved in the probe
This is not a case involving a single individual, but rather a broader investigation that includes multiple figures within the refereeing structure. This aspect suggests that authorities are examining a wider system rather than isolated incidents. Among the names mentioned in early reports:
- Andrea Gervasoni, VAR supervisor, also under investigation
- other referees and assistants, including individuals such as Nasca and Di Vuolo according to media reconstructions
- technical officials involved in referee management and assignments
The involvement of several figures reinforces the perception of a system under scrutiny, rather than a single isolated case.
Matches under investigation
One of the most sensitive aspects of the inquiry concerns the matches that prosecutors are reviewing. These games, from both Serie A and domestic cup competitions, are believed to include controversial refereeing or VAR decisions. According to current reports, the focus includes:
- Inter vs Verona and Udinese vs Parma among the matches examined
- specific VAR decisions considered questionable
- additional fixtures from the 2024–2025 season currently under review
Investigators are also said to be looking into possible attempts to avoid appointing referees considered “unfavorable” for certain matches.
Clubs mentioned and initial reactions
At this stage, there are no direct accusations against football clubs, but some teams have been referenced in connection with the matches under investigation. This distinction is crucial, as it separates potential refereeing issues from club responsibility. In particular:
- Inter has been mentioned in relation to investigated matches
- club officials have denied any involvement
- other teams are only indirectly connected through the games analyzed
International reports highlight that the clubs involved have expressed confidence in the judicial process while firmly rejecting any wrongdoing.
Echoes of past scandals
Any investigation involving referees inevitably brings back memories of the 2006 Calciopoli scandal, which had a profound impact on Italian football. While the current case is different in context and scope, some parallels are difficult to ignore. Among the similarities often highlighted:
- involvement of referee designators
- suspicion of influence over match outcomes
- risk of both legal and sporting consequences
For now, however, the investigation is still ongoing, and no definitive conclusions have been reached.
What happens next
The current phase of the investigation is still preliminary, but the coming weeks will be crucial in determining its scope and potential impact. Both judicial and sporting authorities may take further action depending on the findings. Possible developments include:
- continuation of the investigation with additional individuals under scrutiny
- potential involvement of football governing bodies such as the FIGC
- disciplinary proceedings if violations are confirmed
In the meantime, temporary measures have reportedly been put in place to ensure the regular continuation of the football season. Beyond the legal outcome, this case strikes at one of the fundamental pillars of football: the credibility of refereeing. Even the perception of interference can damage trust among fans, clubs and stakeholders.
For this reason, transparency and institutional response will be essential in determining whether Italian football can manage this crisis effectively—or risk facing another major reputational setback.
