Arbitropoli at the criminal level: Monza files the investigation on
By OnzeActu · · 4 min read
Gianluca Rocchi, former designer, sees the criminal aspect of the so-called “Arbitropoli” case being closed in Monza concerning the supposed “bussate” in the VAR room. The Federal Prosecutor could, however, extend her examination.
Why it matters
The archiving of the criminal aspect of the Arbitropoli case in Monza marks a significant step for Gianluca Rocchi and others involved, putting an end to months of uncertainty. It also highlights the challenges Italian football faces in terms of integrity, particularly in the context of decisions taken in the VAR room, a sensitive subject in Serie A football circles.
Context
Gianluca Rocchi, former designer, was at the center of the Arbitropoli affair, which highlighted allegations of irregularities in the VAR room. His criminal record at Monza, in connection with the alleged 'bussate', could influence the perception of his role in Serie A football and future decisions regarding refereeing.
Key points
- Arbitropoli at the criminal level: Monza files the investigation on.
- Gianluca Rocchi, former designer, sees the criminal aspect of the so-called “Arbitropoli” case being closed in Monza concerning the supposed “bussate” in the VAR room.
- Arbitropoli a livello penale finisce qui: Monza archivia l'inchiesta sulle "bussate".
Among the other people involved in this vein were also the former deputy Andrea Gervasoni as well as the ex-varists Luigi Nasca and Rodolfo Di Vuolo. All had been targeted by investigations into an alleged system of irregularities in the VAR room and possible interference. According to available information, the Monza decision puts an end to the criminal dimension of the so-called “Arbitropoli” case — at least for this specific chapter.
It should be remembered that last September the Milan Prosecutor had already archived Rocchi's position as well as that of all the others implicated in the alleged interference of certain clubs, Inter in particular being cited in the initial reports. This previous classification concerned another part of the investigation, distinct from the “bussate” in the VAR room.
Image
Despite the criminal closure pronounced by Monza, the procedure before the sporting justice system is not necessarily exhausted. The Federal Prosecutor indicated that she was considering a probable archiving, but requested an extension – an extension – until the beginning of October to complete her investigation. On a sporting level, the file linked to “bussate” concerning certain matches of the 2024/2025 championship had already been archived previously, an element which would imply, if necessary, a reopening of the specific booklet rather than an automatic continuation.
The “Arbitropoli” affair will therefore have gone through several procedural stages: media and legal investigations, successive classifications and, now, the formal closure of the criminal aspect on the question of strikes in the VAR room. It remains to be seen whether the sporting justice system will also confirm this epilogue or whether it will choose to explore certain aspects in greater depth in the light of the documents in the file.
Image: an illustration of the refereeing world and VAR rooms, linked to the current case.
The rest
Although the criminal aspect is closed, the Federal Prosecutor could extend its examination, which means that consequences could still arise in terms of sporting justice. The implications for referees and clubs, notably Inter, may continue to come under scrutiny in the coming months as Serie A seeks to restore fan confidence.
Frequently asked questions
What happened with the 'bussate' investigation?
The criminal investigation into the alleged 'bussate' in the VAR room has been closed by Monza, ending the proceedings against Gianluca Rocchi and others involved.
Who confirmed the classification of the investigation?
The classification of the investigation was confirmed by elements transmitted by the Italian press.
Why did the ranking happen now?
The classification took place because the file was transferred to Monza for reasons of territorial jurisdiction, and the alleged acts allegedly took place in offices located in Lissone.
What are the consequences of this decision for Gianluca Rocchi?
The Monza decision puts an end to the criminal dimension of the 'Arbitropoli' case for Gianluca Rocchi, but the procedure before the sporting justice could still continue.
Are there any other
aspects of the current investigation?
Yes, although the criminal aspect is closed, the Federal Prosecutor is considering possible archiving but has requested an extension to finalize her investigation.