Rai to stop showing controversial refereeing decisions

The analysis of la moviola is part of Italian football history, but it has also been a constant source of arguments between rivals teams and supporters.

The replay itself will not be abandoned, but highlights of questionable refereeing decisions will be dropped in favour of tactical analysis.

Speaking on Monday, Rai President Paolo Galimberti said: “Now we can think about a football with less shouting and more thought.”

The Italian Referees’ Association unsurprisingly welcomed the move, but they can also look at the other side of the coin and use these controversial replays as learning base for future decisions.

Italy’s other broadcasters Sky and Mediaset will continue to show la moviola in a nod to its cultural heritage. Many Italian football fans look forward to the endless repetitions of referee decisions Sunday evenings after the final match of the day has ended.