Referee Pierluigi Collina Admits to Rule Violation in 2002 World Cup Final

Collina extended the match by 14 seconds to secure possession of the game ball, a decision that did not impact the final outcome.

Pierluigi Collina, the referee for the 2002 World Cup final, admitted to a minor rule violation during the match between Germany and Brazil.
Collina extended the game by 13 to 14 seconds beyond regulation time to ensure he could claim the match ball as a souvenir.
The additional time had no effect on the outcome, as Brazil defeated Germany 2–0 in the final held in Yokohama, Japan.
Collina, known for his strict officiating and distinctive bald appearance, reflected on the incident as he approaches his 65th birthday.
The match ball, along with jerseys from players Ronaldo, Cafu, and Didi Hamann, is now kept at a fitness studio where Collina works.