Daniele Orsato Named New Serie A Referee Designator After Rocchi Suspension

FolioPitch.com – 07 July 2026 | In a significant development for Italian football officiating, the Italian Refereeing Association (AIA) has officially confirmed that Daniele Orsato has been appointed as the new referee designator for Serie A and Serie B for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 seasons. The official announcement, made earlier today, means that Orsato will take over the role previously held by Gianluca Rocchi, who suspended himself in April amid investigations into sporting fraud and allegations of influencing VAR decisions. This move marks a new chapter for Italian refereeing, with the experienced former official stepping into a pivotal administrative position.

The appointment of Orsato, a 50-year-old retired referee with an illustrious career, comes after Dino Tommasi served as interim refereeing chief for three months. Orsato’s credentials are impeccable: he officiated 290 Serie A matches, including the 2020 Champions League final between Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain. He also took charge of high-profile games such as the 2024 Champions League semi-final second leg between PSG and Borussia Dortmund and the 2022 World Cup semi-final between Argentina and Croatia. His final Serie A match was Atalanta vs. Fiorentina on June 2, 2024.

Orsato’s path to this role included serving as the AIA commissioner for the development of refereeing talent from January 2025 and as the referee designator for Serie C during the 2025-26 season. The selection process saw him competing against other candidates, including Nicola Rizzoli and Daniele Doveri, the latter of whom will continue refereeing for another season. Nicola Ayroldi has been appointed as the referee designator for Serie C.

Background of the Appointment

The need for a new designator arose after Gianluca Rocchi voluntarily stepped aside in April 2025 when he was placed under investigation for alleged sporting fraud and accusations that he influenced VAR decisions. The AIA moved quickly to appoint Tommasi as interim, but the organization has now settled on Orsato as the permanent replacement. The decision underscores the AIA’s desire for a seasoned and respected figure to restore confidence in the refereeing system.

Orsato’s appointment is seen as a stabilizing force. His extensive experience at the highest levels of club and international football gives him the authority to evaluate and assign referees for Serie A and Serie B matches. The official statement from the AIA highlighted his leadership qualities and commitment to improving refereeing standards.

Implications for Italian Football

With Daniele Orsato appointed as Serie A’s new referee designator replacing Rocchi, the focus will now shift to how he handles the challenges ahead. The role involves selecting match officials, overseeing their performance, and coordinating with VAR rooms. Orsato’s familiarity with modern officiating, having been a proponent of technology during his career, bodes well for the integration of VAR and other innovations.

Many within the football community have welcomed the news. Former colleagues and analysts note that Orsato’s calm demeanor and deep understanding of the game make him ideal for the position. However, the shadow of Rocchi’s controversy lingers, and Orsato will need to ensure transparency and fairness in his decisions to rebuild trust.

Orsato’s Vision

In his first comments after the announcement, Orsato expressed his honor at taking on the role and emphasized his commitment to nurturing young referees. He stated that his priority is to maintain the integrity of officiating and to support referees in making correct decisions under pressure. The AIA has provided him with a two-season mandate, signaling confidence in his ability to deliver long-term improvements.

Conclusion

Daniele Orsato’s ascent to the role of referee designator comes at a critical time for Italian football. With the controversy surrounding his predecessor, the AIA is betting on Orsato’s reputation and experience to steer officiating back on course. As Serie A and Serie B prepare for the next seasons under his watch, all eyes will be on how the new designator implements changes and ensures that the beautiful game is served by fair and competent officiating.