By Kwame Bediako
Legendary Italian referee Pierluigi Collina clocks 65 today.
Renowned for his commanding presence on the pitch and unique features, Collina is the only referee to ever grace the front cover of a video game. His career spanned from 1988 to 2005, during which he officiated some of the most memorable matches in football, including the 1999 UEFA Champions League final and the 2002 FIFA World Cup final.
His influence on the game transcends mere officiating; he has become a symbol of integrity and respect in a sport often fraught with controversy.
Collina’s officiating career is marked by a plethora of iconic matches that showcased his exceptional skills. He not only refereed major domestic competitions in Italy but also took charge of international spectacles such as the 1996 Olympic Games Final between Nigeria and Argentina and the 2003-04 UEFA Cup Final, where Valencia triumphed over Marseille.
His ability to maintain control and fairness in high-stakes situations earned him the admiration of players and fans, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest referees of all time. A six-time winner of the IFFHS Best Referee award, Collina’s contributions to football continued beyond his refereeing days when he became UEFA’s chief refereeing officer in 2017.
Throughout his career, Collina officiated 240 Serie A matches, making his debut on December 15, 1991, in a game between Verona and Ascoli.
His final match came in May 2005, when he presided over a 3-0 victory for Fiorentina against Brescia at the Stadio Franchi. From the moment he stepped onto the field, Collina’s presence was unmistakable. His intense gaze and authoritative demeanour commanded respect from players and officials, making him a familiar figure in football stadiums across Europe and beyond.
Reflecting on his illustrious career, Collina recalls the unforgettable moments that defined his experience as a referee. One such moment occurred during the dramatic conclusion of the 1999 Champions League final when Manchester United staged a remarkable comeback against Bayern Munich.
“I saw the Bayern players on the bench preparing to celebrate the title. Suddenly, Manchester scored two goals in two minutes and reversed the score. I will never forget how the English side were bursting with great noise, while there was funeral silence in the Bayern stands,” he recounts.
His unwavering commitment to fairness and excellence in officiating has left an indelible mark on football history. With his legacy firmly established, Collina continues to inspire future generations of referees and football enthusiasts around the world, reminding us all of the vital role that officiating plays in the beautiful game.
