“I’m not racist”. Uefa confirms it for the Champions League final – Corriere.it

“I have never supported or legitimized any party, organization or individual politician.” Szymon Marciniakthe designated referee for the Champions League final between Manchester City and Inter, in a post on Instagram dissociates himself from the accusations made by the association Never Again of Warsaw that he promoted and participated in a recent event organized by a far-right Polish leader. “I strongly and clearly dissociate myself from any type of radical, racist or anti-Semitic vision, statement or action,” added the Polish match director, at the center of a real fuss that reached the UEFA offices, so much so that his exclusion from the final in Istanbul it seemed it could represent a more than credible scenario.

UEFA confirms Marciniak for the Champions League final

In the end, however, the highest organ of European football welcomed Marciniak’s words: «We acknowledge your deep apologies and clarifications – reads an official note – we have also contacted Never Again, who raised initial concerns about our race director’s involvement at the event in question. The association has however requested that Mr Marciniak remain in his role as referee for the upcoming Champions League final, strongly stating that its removal would undermine the promotion of anti-discrimination. Based on the information provided, UEFA confirms that Marciniak will carry out his role of referee for the final. We reaffirm our commitment to promoting unity, respect and fair play within football. We look forward to the match between Manchester City and Inter Milan at the Atatürk Olympic Stadium.”