When you think of a referee who’s stood at the center of global football drama, Szymon Marciniak, a Polish football referee known for officiating top-tier international matches, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup final. Also known as the man who blew the whistle on Messi and Mbappé, he’s become one of the most visible figures in modern soccer. He’s not just any referee—he’s the guy FIFA picks when the stakes are highest. That’s why he was chosen to run the 2022 World Cup final between Argentina and France, a match that ended in a 3-3 thriller and went to penalties. No other referee in recent memory has handled so many high-pressure moments back-to-back.
His career is built on consistency under fire. Marciniak doesn’t just blow whistles—he manages emotions. He’s been at the center of heated debates after VAR decisions in Champions League games, Serie A clashes, and even Poland’s own Euro qualifiers. His calm demeanor doesn’t mean he avoids controversy; it means he owns it. Fans in Germany, Spain, and Italy have all yelled at their screens when his call went against their team. But here’s the thing: he’s been right more often than not. His decisions are backed by data, replay reviews, and years of training under UEFA’s toughest standards. He’s also one of the few referees who regularly officiates matches across multiple top leagues, making him a true global referee, not just a national one.
What makes Marciniak stand out isn’t just his skill—it’s his role in shaping how football is watched today. He’s part of the new generation that works with VAR, communication headsets, and sideline monitors. Every time he points to the screen or consults his team, he’s changing how fans experience the game. Some love it. Some hate it. But no one ignores it. And whether you’re watching a Champions League knockout or a World Cup final, his presence means one thing: this match matters.
Below, you’ll find posts that touch on the biggest matches he’s officiated, the players he’s clashed with, and the moments that turned him into a household name—even if you didn’t know it. From World Cup finals to last-minute penalties, these stories show why Szymon Marciniak isn’t just a referee. He’s a key player in the drama of modern football.
UEFA revealed referee appointments for Matchday 4 of the 2025/26 Champions League, including Szymon Marciniak for Man City vs Dortmund and István Kovács for Liverpool vs Real Madrid, alongside detailed VAR explanations for three overturned decisions.
