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Rocchi Self-Suspends as Milan Prosecutors Probe Alleged VAR Interference

The case tests Italy’s ability to police VAR protocols to protect competitive integrity.

Overview

  • Gianluca Rocchi, who assigns referees for Serie A and Serie B, stepped aside after prosecutors in Milan opened a preliminary criminal inquiry into suspected sports fraud tied to video review decisions.
  • Investigators are scrutinizing Udinese vs. Parma from March 2025, where officials abruptly shifted from no penalty to an on-field review after Rocchi allegedly banged on the VAR booth window to draw attention.
  • The probe also revisits Inter Milan vs. Verona from January 2024, focusing on a possible elbow by Alessandro Bastoni that was not sent to the pitchside monitor before a goal stood.
  • A preliminary hearing has been scheduled in Milan as authorities analyze VAR-room audio and match footage, and the FIGC’s prosecutor signaled he could revive a closed disciplinary case if new evidence emerges.
  • Italian reports say VAR supervisor Andrea Gervasoni is also under investigation, and prosecutors are examining whether referee appointments under Rocchi favored certain teams.