I've been a World Cup official - I promise you there is no favouritism
A former World Cup assistant referee addresses conspiracy theories regarding match-fixing and favoritism in FIFA tournaments. He explains the rigorous, independent nature of officiating and denies any clandestine influence on match outcomes.
Why it matters
Public trust in the integrity of global sporting events is frequently challenged by misinformation, making expert clarification necessary.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Lionel Messi is set to line up for Argentina against Spain in Sunday's World Cup final
According to many fans, social media timelines and corners of the internet, Fifa wants Argentina and Lionel Messi to win the World Cup - and the officials are all in on it.
As referees, we are forced to deal with the idea that we are part of some kind of conspiracy theory all the time.
And it is nonsense. I can't stress this strongly enough.
I was lucky enough to be an assistant referee at two World Cups, in 2010 and 2014, as part of a team which featured referee Howard Webb, with Michael Mullarkey running the other line.
We were independent, and we made our own decisions. I can assure you this has not changed.
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