Born: 27 June 1979
Hometown: Firenze, Pistoia, Tuscany
Debut as referee: 1996
Serie A – debut: 18 March 2012
FIFA ranking: Retired on the European stage
Information:
Massimiliano Irrati is well-known for his involvement both on the field and as one of the top Video Assistant Referee (VAR) officials in international and domestic competitions. Here’s a summary of his career and achievements:
Birth and Early Life:
Massimiliano Irrati was born on June 27, 1979, in Pistoia, Italy. Like most referees, Irrati began officiating in Italy’s lower leagues and worked his way up through consistent performances.
Serie A Career:
Irrati made his Serie A debut in 2012 and has since officiated numerous matches in Italy’s top league. Known for his calm demeanor and authoritative presence, he has become one of the regular referees for high-profile matches, including derbies and crucial fixtures.
International Recognition:
In 2017, Irrati became a FIFA-listed referee, allowing him to officiate international matches. Though primarily recognized for his domestic refereeing, he has participated in international fixtures and has gained a strong reputation, especially with the implementation of VAR.
VAR Expertise:
Irrati is most famous for his pioneering role in the use of VAR technology. He was heavily involved in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, where VAR was used extensively for the first time. Irrati’s expertise in handling VAR decisions during the tournament received widespread praise. He has continued to serve as a key VAR official in high-level matches, including UEFA competitions and Serie A, becoming one of the top experts in the use of video technology in football.
Refereeing Style:
On the field, Irrati is known for his clear communication, firm control over the game, and ability to make quick, decisive rulings. His work with VAR has also improved his perception of in-game incidents, making him a well-rounded and trusted referee in both traditional officiating and video review contexts.
Notable Matches:
Irrati has officiated numerous important matches, both as the main referee and as a VAR official. His role in the 2018 World Cup, particularly during key moments in knockout matches, helped solidify his reputation on the international stage. Irrati’s dual capability as a traditional referee and as a leading VAR official makes him one of the most respected figures in modern football officiating.