FIFA president Gianni Infantino has expressed support for Mexican referee Katia Itzel Garcia, who said she has been facing online abuse and death threats following a Leagues Cup match.
‘At FIFA, we stand in solidarity with the FMF and CONCACAF in condemning the actions of those who make these unacceptable threats,’ Infantino wrote on his Instagram. ‘We offer our unconditional support in holding those responsible to account.’
Garcia officiated a Leagues Cup match – a tournament that features top teams from the United States and Mexico – between FC Cincinnati, a Major League Soccer team, and Monterrey, a prominent Liga MX team.
In the match, she faced criticism for awarding FC Cincinnati a goal that was disputed as being offside. FC Cincinnati ultimately defeated Monterrey 3-2, which caused an outcry among the team’s fans.
The comments on social media blamed Garcia’s officiating for the team’s loss, and the abusive messages escalated to threats against her life and her family’s well-being.