The legendary referee Pierluigi Collina, The only referee who had the VAR in his eyes
There are referees, and then there is Pierluigi Collina. Known for his iconic bald head and piercing stare, Collina wasn’t just any referee; he was a legend on the field. What set him apart from others was not just his impeccable officiating skills, but his unique ability to command respect and authority from players and fans alike.
Collina’s legacy in football is unparalleled. He was the only referee who seemed to have the VAR (Video Assistant Referee) in his eyes even before it became a reality in the sport. His decisions were often swift and accurate, leaving little room for debate or dispute. It was as if he could see every angle of the game with unparalleled clarity.
One of Collina’s remarkable traits was his linguistic prowess. Fluent in four languages — French, Spanish, Italian, and English — he could effortlessly communicate with players from diverse backgrounds. Before every match, Collina would meticulously study the teams and players involved, memorizing their names and understanding their styles of play. This attention to detail earned him the admiration of both players and coaches.
