Arbitration Chief Defends Referees Amid Pressures in Portuguese Football

Oeiras, Portugal – Luciano Gonçalves, president of the Arbitration Council, assured attendees at a press conference that referees are shielded from external pressures, stating, “no one will be unfairly penalized due to outside interference.” This assurance came during a review of arbitration performance in the first ten matches of the Primeira Liga.

Gonçalves emphasized that if referees face demotion, it will be based solely on their performances and not on any external influence, citing the Council’s commitment to maintaining integrity within the sport.

He defended the decisions made by referees Fábio Veríssimo and Gustavo Correia in recent matches involving FC Porto vs. Sporting de Braga and Benfica vs. Casa Pia. “These situations aimed to create undue pressure on referees, but all actions taken by them aligned with proper conduct,” Gonçalves remarked.

Duarte Gomes, the technical director for referee operations, expressed pride in the referees’ approach and highlighted the importance of transparency in their reports concerning both on-field and off-field incidents. He stated, “When referees report truthfully, they fulfill their mission.”

Furthermore, both Gonçalves and Gomes dismissed the notion of “jars”—a metaphorical reference to disciplinary actions—stating that accountability lies exclusively with the referees.

Gonçalves remarked, “Our Council will continue to work for improved referee performance and protect them from being scapegoated for sporting failures.” He emphasized the Council’s openness to dialogue, noting that they have responded to all meeting requests from clubs and associations swiftly.

In light of the ongoing discussion about referee errors, Gonçalves maintained that the Council is committed to enhancing the standards of officiating while ensuring referees are not unduly penalized for mistakes. He reaffirmed, “Referees are held accountable and face serious consequences for poor performances, but our goal is to support them in managing these challenges effectively.”