There are reports that another two Serie A referees – specifically Davide Massa and Piero Giacomelli – will be suspended in the growing false expenses scandal. The controversy erupted when certain irregularities were spotted in the accounts, suggesting some officials had artificially inflated the costs of their expenses, hoping to get remuneration from the AIA (Italian Referees Association). This resulted in Fabrizio Pasqua and Federico La Penna receiving suspensions for 16 and 13 months, respectively. However, Il Fatto Quotidiano reports that the investigation is not over, so Massa and Giacomelli could also be suspended for a similar length of time. There is believed to be another referee whose position is still being analysed.
Sky Sport Italia insist that Massa and Giacomelli’s infractions are not as serious, so they could get away with a fine, but have been suspended as a precautionary measure while the case is evaluated. It adds to the growing problems, because this week Giampaolo Calvarese announced his resignation as a Serie A and B referee due to a conflict of interest. This is because his family has launched a business selling natural vitamin integrators and wanted football players and clubs to purchase their products. It means the match officials will have their pre-season meeting with only 46 referees available rather than 51.
Source: Football Italia
