(London) The Association of Professional Football Referees (PGMOL) on Friday denounced “the unjustified and repugnant insults” suffered by Anthony Taylor, the referee of the Europa League final, attacked at Budapest airport , Thursday, by supporters of the unfortunate finalist, Roma.
In videos circulating on social media, the England referee and his family could be seen waiting to catch the plane home the day after Sevilla won on penalties against Roma, surrounded by supporters and evacuated under the protection of security guards.
A bottle and a chair had even been thrown in the direction of the small group.
“We are appalled by the unwarranted and repugnant insults directed at Anthony and his family as he attempted to return home after officiating in the Europa League final,” PGMOL wrote.
“We will continue to give our full support to Anthony and his family,” she added.
Ferenc-Liszt Airport in Budapest also issued a statement stating that an Italian fan “has been arrested by the police and legal proceedings have been initiated against him for this brawl”.
The match itself was full of fouls, clashes and punctuated by 14 yellow cards, including one for the Italian club’s coach, José Mourinho.
Taylor had several important decisions to make, including the decision, after watching the VAR footage, to cancel a penalty he had given for Sevilla, then not to award one to Roma for a handball by an opponent .
But the most controversial, from the Italian point of view, was having Gonzalo Montiel’s decisive shot on goal removed, initially saved by Rui Patricio, before the referee deemed it was not on his line. at the time of the strike.
In his second attempt, the Argentinian had given the victory to the Andalusians.
Immediately after the final, Roma coach José Mourinho was filmed in the stadium parking lot waiting for the referee to leave before insulting him in English and Italian, including calling him ” shame “.
UEFA said it was waiting for Anthony Taylor’s detailed report before deciding on possible sanctions against the Portuguese coach.