Referee’s Social Media Slip Sparks Outrage and Calls for Probe
In a stunning post-match revelation, UEFA referee Irfan Peljto ignited fresh controversy when he shared an Instagram story immediately after Athletic Club’s 2–0 victory—featuring a Celtic jersey proudly displayed by an Athletic fan. The timing and content of the post have led Rangers supporters and neutral observers alike to question Peljto’s impartiality and demand a formal investigation into a potential conflict of interest.
A Questionable Celebration
Moments after the final whistle at San Mamés, Peljto’s official Instagram account highlighted a Celtic shirt exhibit, complete with club colors and insignia. Given Celtic’s well-known rivalry with Rangers—Athletic’s next opponents in this competition—the post has been widely interpreted as more than an innocuous share of fan enthusiasm. Critics argue that a professional referee, entrusted with maintaining absolute neutrality, should not display allegiance to any club, especially one with deep-rooted enmity toward a side he has just officiated.
Undermining Confidence in Fair Play
For Rangers players and supporters, the Instagram story strikes at the heart of football’s integrity. “How can we trust the whistle when the man behind it is flaunting his own loyalties?” asked one disgruntled fan on social media. The perception that Peljto may harbor bias risks undermining confidence in future officiating appointments and casts a shadow over UEFA’s governance of match officials.
Calls for an Immediate Investigation
Fans’ groups and club executives have already begun lodging formal complaints with UEFA’s Referees Committee. The demands are clear: a transparent review of Peljto’s social media activity, an assessment of his eligibility for high-stakes fixtures, and—if warranted—a suspension pending inquiry. Legal experts in sports law emphasize that even the appearance of partiality can warrant temporary removal from duty to preserve the competition’s credibility.
What’s at Stake?
If UEFA deems Peljto’s post a breach of its ethical guidelines, the consequences could include disciplinary sanctions or reassignment away from high-profile matches. More broadly, this incident raises urgent questions about referees’ conduct online and the governing body’s responsibility to enforce strict neutrality standards.
As the drama unfolds, one thing is certain: in an era where every action is instantly broadcast, referees can no longer separate their professional responsibilities from their personal expressions. UEFA’s response in the coming days will be closely watched—and could set a precedent for how social media behavior impacts the future of officiating.
