Overview
- Zappi and National Committee member Emanuele Marchesi were formally referred by the FIGC prosecutor, opening proceedings before the National Federal Tribunal.
- The case centers on allegations that Zappi pressured Serie C and Serie D technical heads Maurizio Ciampi and Alessandro Pizzi to resign to clear the way for Daniele Orsato and Stefano Braschi.
- Zappi sought a plea arrangement before referral, but prosecutor Giuseppe Chiné rejected the proposal as inadequate.
- In a statement, Zappi denied wrongdoing, asserted the legitimacy of his actions, offered full cooperation, and asked that the case files be made available to members.
- Outlets note the risk of internal strain for the referees’ association, while some commentary speculates—without proof—about political motives tied to proposed arbitration reforms.