FIFA has appointed Clément Turpin to oversee the World Cup qualifier between Italy and Israel in Udine, a fixture designated high risk given the political backdrop and recent crowd disturbances. The choice signals a clear intent to place one of Europe’s most trusted officials in charge of a sensitive match that will demand authority, calm decision-making and precise game management.
This appointment comes just days after Szymon Marciniak took charge of Norway vs Israel on 11 October, a match disrupted by a pitch invasion in Oslo. Taken together, the two selections reveal a clear pattern: this is the second consecutive Israel fixture assigned to a referee who has handled major finals. It appears FIFA is prioritising officials with extended service at the highest level for Israel’s recent qualifiers, seeking to reduce flashpoints and maintain control from the outset.
Turpin brings a significant pedigree. On the FIFA list since 2010, he has officiated some of football’s most prestigious occasions, including the UEFA Champions League Final and the UEFA Europa League Final, along with multiple domestic showpieces in France. He also served as fourth official for a Champions League final, underlining UEFA’s long-standing confidence in his handling of marquee events.
Marciniak’s profile is similarly elite, with more than a decade on the FIFA panel and a record that includes major finals on the European and global stage. The consecutive appointments of Marciniak and Turpin suggest a deliberate move by FIFA toward referees with at least ten years of international experience when assigning officials to Israel’s high-profile matches.
Renowned for clear communication, strong positioning and a measured disciplinary approach, Turpin’s presence in Udine should assure both camps and match organisers. With Italy targeting a decisive result on home soil and Israel seeking points amid intense scrutiny, the selection of a referee with proven big-match temperament is designed to keep the focus on the football while ensuring the highest standards of safety and fairness at the Dacia Arena.
