While the Azzurri will be watching the 2026 FIFA World Cup from home after failing to qualify, Italy will still have a significant presence on the pitch—or rather, alongside it. The nation's officiating talent is heading to North America, with referee Maurizio Mariani and VAR specialist Marco Di Bello selected to be part of the tournament's elite officiating team.
This appointment is a major honor for Italian football, ensuring the country's renowned tactical understanding and officiating standards are represented on the world's biggest stage. They join a distinguished list of Italian figures involved, including managers like Brazil's Carlo Ancelotti and Uzbekistan's Fabio Cannavaro.
Maurizio Mariani, a familiar and respected figure in Serie A, will be on the field making the crucial calls. His experience handling high-pressure matches in Italy's top flight prepares him perfectly for the World Cup spotlight. Meanwhile, Marco Di Bello will play a pivotal role from the VAR booth as a Video Match Official (VMO), where his sharp eye and understanding of the game will be essential for reviewing key moments.
They won't be alone; assistant referees Daniele Bindoni and Alberto Tegoni will also be part of the Italian contingent, showcasing the depth of officiating talent from the peninsula.
The 2026 tournament, set across Canada, Mexico, and the USA, will be the largest World Cup ever, featuring 48 teams and over 100 matches. To manage this historic event, FIFA has assembled its biggest-ever team of match officials. The selection of 52 referees, including 15 from Europe, was overseen by none other than Italian legend and FIFA’s Chief Refereeing Officer, Pierluigi Collina.
Collina emphasized the scale of the task, stating, “This year’s FIFA World Cup will be the biggest in history... Each of them must be ready to be appointed for a match and to contribute actively to ensuring that the refereeing at the World Cup is a success.” His comments highlight the immense responsibility and prestige that comes with this selection for Mariani, Di Bello, and their colleagues.
This news is a point of pride for Italian football fans. Even without their national team competing, they can rally behind their officials, whose decisions will help shape the drama and fairness of the beautiful game's premier tournament. It's a reminder that excellence in football isn't limited to the players on the ball.