Born: 10 April 1985
Hometown: Rimini
Debut as referee: 2001
Serie A – debut: 28 May 2017 (at the age of 32 years, 1 month and 18 days old)
FIFA rankning: –
Information:
Antonio Rapuano is an Italian football referee who primarily officiates in Serie A and Serie B. Born on December 20, 1985, in Rimini, Italy, Rapuano is a member of the Italian Referees Association (AIA) and has established himself as a capable and reliable referee in Italy’s professional football leagues.
Rapuano began his career officiating in the lower divisions of Italian football, steadily progressing through the ranks due to his consistent performances. He made his Serie B debut in 2013 and later earned his opportunity to referee in Serie A. Over the years, Rapuano has gained experience in managing high-pressure matches, showcasing a calm demeanor and firm control over games.
Known for his clear communication and balanced decision-making on the pitch, Rapuano is respected for his fairness and ability to maintain order during matches. His officiating style emphasizes keeping the game flowing while ensuring players adhere to the rules, which helps him manage tense situations and prevent escalation of conflicts. These qualities have contributed to his reputation as a trustworthy referee among players and coaches alike.
In line with modern officiating standards, Rapuano is well-versed in the use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, which has become integral to top-level football. His proficiency with VAR helps him in making crucial decisions during matches, adding to his reliability as a referee in both Serie A and Serie B.
In addition to his domestic duties, Rapuano has officiated matches in the Coppa Italia, Italy’s premier knockout competition, where he has further demonstrated his ability to handle the pressures of high-stakes games. Like his fellow referees, he regularly participates in ongoing training and development programs through the AIA, staying up-to-date with rule changes and best practices in football officiating.
With his experience and consistent performances, Antonio Rapuano continues to be an important figure in Italian football refereeing, contributing to the smooth running of matches in both Italy’s top-flight and second-tier competitions.