Italy has taken a firm stance against the rising tide of violence targeting sports referees by enacting new legislation that grants them legal protection equivalent to that of police officers and other public officials. This landmark decision, driven by a notable increase in assaults on referees, aims to safeguard the integrity of sports and ensure fair play across all levels of competition.

The revised penal code, amended on June 19, 2025, stipulates that individuals who commit acts of violence against referees, including pushing, hitting, or threatening, will face significantly harsher penalties, potentially including imprisonment. This measure extends protection to all technical personnel responsible for maintaining the technical compliance of sports events. The penalties are as follows: minor injuries could lead to 2 to 5 years in prison, serious injuries 4 to 10 years, and severe injuries 8 to 16 years.

Junior Justice Minister Andrea Ostellari emphasized the government's unwavering commitment to upholding respect and safety within the sporting community, stating, "Sport is loyalty and sharing. Those who do not accept it are warned: from tomorrow violent behavior and aggression against referees will be punished without delay, even with prison."

This legislative change follows extensive discussions between the Italian government and the Italian Soccer Referees Association (ISRA), which has been a vocal advocate for enhanced protections for referees. In December of last year, Serie A referees protested against the increasing abuse they face by wearing black smudges on their faces during matches. This symbolic act highlighted the vulnerability of referees and the urgent need for greater protection. A particularly alarming incident involved a 19-year-old referee, Diego Alfonzetti, who was assaulted during a youth match in Sicily, further underscoring the severity of the problem.

The new law has garnered widespread support, with Antonio Zappi, president of the Italian Referees Association (AIA), expressing his gratitude and relief. "I'm extremely happy and moved by the passage of this historic law. Protection for referees has finally been written into the Penal Code," he stated, thanking Minister Abodi, the government, and all those who supported this civilizing battle.

This legislative move is not only a response to the escalating violence against referees in Italy but also reflects a global concern. In the U.S., for example, youth sports leagues have struggled to retain referees due to verbal and physical altercations. Italy's new law could serve as a model for other countries grappling with similar challenges, demonstrating a proactive approach to protecting sports officials and fostering a safer, more respectful environment for all participants. This landmark decision sends a clear message that violence in sports will not be tolerated and that those who engage in such behavior will face serious consequences.