Who is Marco Di Bello? The Italian VAR Making History in England vs Argentina World Cup Semi-Final

FolioPitch.com – 15 July 2026 | The World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina is set to be a high-stakes clash, but behind the scenes, Italian official Marco Di Bello will be under the spotlight as the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). The question on many fans’ minds is: Who is Marco Di Bello Italian VAR in England vs Argentina World Cup semi final? With a reputation for strict discipline and a career spanning nearly two decades, Di Bello brings a wealth of experience to the VAR booth in Atlanta.

Di Bello, who turned 45 on Sunday, has officiated 189 Serie A matches, 75 in Serie B, and 11 Coppa Italia ties. Known for his no-nonsense approach, he has issued 822 yellow cards, 31 straight reds, and 17 dismissals via second yellows in his top-flight career. His appointment as VAR for this crucial fixture has drawn attention, especially given the tense history between England and Argentina. The match, kicking off at 20.00 UK time, will see the winner face Spain in the final, while the loser plays France for bronze.

Fans and analysts alike are exploring who is Marco Di Bello Italian VAR in England vs Argentina World Cup semi final, as his role could be pivotal in a game likely to feature controversial moments. Di Bello became an international referee in 2018 and has been a FIFA Video Match Official since January 2021. He previously served as a VAR at EURO 2020 and officiated the Cyprus Cup Final in 2022. However, his career has not been without controversy; in 2024, he was suspended for a month following a chaotic Serie A match between Lazio and Milan that saw three red cards.

The choice of officials for the semi-finals has been a talking point throughout the tournament. France coach Didier Deschamps criticized the appointment of Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton for his semi-final, while the second semi-final features referee Ismail Elfath, a Moroccan-born American. Italian experience is present beyond Di Bello: fourth official Maurizio Mariani is tasked with managing touchline tensions between England’s Thomas Tuchel and Argentina’s Lionel Scaloni. This further underscores the importance of understanding who is Marco Di Bello Italian VAR in England vs Argentina World Cup semi final.

Di Bello’s disciplinary record suggests he is not afraid to make big decisions. In a tournament where VAR interventions have sparked debate, his judgment will be crucial. The semi-final promises intensity, and Di Bello’s calm demeanor under pressure will be tested. For those still wondering who is Marco Di Bello Italian VAR in England vs Argentina World Cup semi final, his background in Serie A—replete with high-pressure matches—prepares him for this moment.

As the world watches, Di Bello’s performance in the VAR booth could shape the outcome of this historic encounter. The Italian official’s experience with contentious calls, such as his handling of the Lazio-Milan red cards, highlights his willingness to enforce the rules strictly. Whether this leads to controversy or clarity remains to be seen, but his role ensures that the question ‘Who is Marco Di Bello Italian VAR in England vs Argentina World Cup semi final?’ will be answered in real-time on the biggest stage.

In conclusion, Marco Di Bello brings a mix of experience, discipline, and occasional controversy to the VAR role. His appointment underscores FIFA’s reliance on seasoned officials from top leagues. As England and Argentina battle for a place in the final, all eyes will be on Di Bello’s decisions, making him a key figure in this World Cup semi-final.