Official: Italian Referees Association elect new President Massini

The Italian Referees' Association (AIA) has officially elected Francesco Massini as its new president following a general assembly in Rome. Massini narrowly defeated Carlo Pacifici during the second round of voting by 461 votes to 441, after leading by just two votes in the opening ballot. Michele Affinito and Francesco Carrieri were also appointed as the association's new vice presidents.

The election follows a turbulent period for the AIA leadership, which has experienced multiple changes since 2021. Previous president Antonio Zappi was banned for 13 months in January 2026 for pressuring lower-division designators to resign. Massini brings an unconventional background to the role, having served exclusively as a five-a-side football referee throughout his officiating career.