Born: 15 July 1981
Hometown: Imperia, Liguria
Debut as referee: 1996
Serie A – debut: 23 january 2011 (at the age of 29 years, 6 months and 8 days old)
FIFA ranking: UEFA Elite Referee
Information:
Davide Massa is another prominent Italian football referee known for his work in Serie A and international competitions. Here are key details about his career and background:
Birth and Early Life:
Davide Massa was born on July 15, 1981, in Imperia, Italy. Like many referees, Massa began his refereeing journey in the lower divisions of Italian football, working his way up through the ranks with solid performances.
Serie A Career:
Massa made his debut as a referee in Serie A in 2011, and he quickly established himself as one of the league’s top referees. Over the years, he has officiated numerous important fixtures, including matches between Italy’s biggest clubs like Juventus, AC Milan, Inter Milan, AS Roma, and Napoli. He is regularly chosen to officiate high-stakes matches due to his reputation for fairness and authority on the field.
International Career:
In 2014, Massa became a FIFA-listed referee, allowing him to officiate international matches under UEFA and FIFA. He has since taken charge of several international fixtures, including UEFA Champions League and Europa League matches, as well as qualifiers for major international tournaments like the UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup.
Refereeing Style:
Massa is known for his assertive yet balanced style of refereeing. He maintains a strong control over the game, ensuring players follow the rules but allowing the match to flow when possible. His communication skills and ability to manage players are often highlighted as key strengths, allowing him to handle tense or challenging situations effectively.
Involvement with VAR:
Massa has been involved with the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system since its introduction in Serie A. He often takes roles both as an on-field referee and in the VAR room, ensuring accuracy in decision-making.
Notable Matches:
Davide Massa has officiated numerous high-profile games, including key domestic derbies and international matches. His experience and performance have made him one of the trusted names in Italian football officiating. Overall, Massa is recognized as one of Italy’s leading referees, with a strong presence in both domestic and international football. His ability to handle high-pressure situations has earned him respect among players, coaches, and fans alike.