Rocchi Resigns from AIA to Continue DAZN Pundit Role After Refereeing Investigation Cleared

FolioPitch.com – 26 October 2026 | Gianluca Rocchi has made a decisive career move. The former Serie A and Serie B referee designator has officially stepped down from the Italian Referees’ Association (AIA), a decision that allows him to continue his new role as a regular pundit on DAZN. As reported, Rocchi resigns from AIA to continue DAZN pundit role, ending a long association with the organization that governs refereeing in Italy.

The resignation, submitted on Saturday, comes after Rocchi made his debut on DAZN’s Sunday night show earlier this month, where he analysed refereeing decisions. His new television commitments are incompatible with AIA rules, which strictly limit what members can say publicly about active officials. Previously, Rocchi required individual permission from the association for each television appearance. Rather than seek repeated approvals, he has chosen to pursue his media career fully.

This development follows a turbulent period for Rocchi. Just weeks ago, he was cleared in a high-profile investigation that had threatened to rock Italian football. He had been placed under investigation by prosecutors in Milan for alleged complicity in sporting fraud, linked to claims of interference in the VAR room at Lissone. Rocchi suspended himself from his role while the case was ongoing. However, the criminal investigation was dropped, and on October 1, the FIGC’s federal prosecutor also closed the sporting case, with the backing of CONI’s sports prosecutor general. Reports in Italy indicated there was no evidence of any direct contact, even by phone, between the former referee and club officials.

The timing of Rocchi’s resignation is significant. Having been exonerated, he could have returned to his role within the AIA. Instead, he has opted to leave the association altogether. The decision to Rocchi resigns from AIA to continue DAZN pundit role underscores his desire to remain in the public eye, offering expert analysis on refereeing controversies. His insights are highly valued by broadcasters, and DAZN has clearly offered him a platform that aligns with his ambitions.

Rocchi’s move also highlights the growing tension between traditional refereeing institutions and modern media. The AIA’s strict rules on public commentary are designed to protect the integrity of officiating, but they can be restrictive for former officials seeking media careers. By resigning, Rocchi avoids any conflict of interest and can speak more freely. This is not the first time a former referee has transitioned to television, but Rocchi’s case is notable given his recent senior position and the sensitivity of the investigation he faced.

For Italian football, the loss of a figure like Rocchi from the AIA is notable. He was a respected designator, responsible for assigning referees to Serie A and Serie B matches. His departure leaves a void, though the association has yet to comment on a replacement. Meanwhile, Rocchi’s media career is set to flourish. His appearances on DAZN have been well received, and he is expected to become a regular fixture on the network’s coverage.

The news that Rocchi resigns from AIA to continue DAZN pundit role has sparked discussion among fans and pundits alike. Some see it as a natural progression for a former official, while others question whether it undermines the authority of the AIA. Regardless, Rocchi’s decision is final, and he is now free to offer his candid assessments without institutional constraints.

In conclusion, Gianluca Rocchi’s resignation from the AIA marks a new chapter in his career. After being cleared of wrongdoing, he has chosen to prioritise his role as a television pundit over his position within the refereeing establishment. The move, while controversial, reflects the evolving landscape of football media and the increasing demand for expert analysis. Rocchi resigns from AIA to continue DAZN pundit role, and his presence on screen will undoubtedly continue to provoke debate and insight in equal measure.