UEFA has confirmed Simon Marchiniak will referee next week’s Champions League final after an investigation into his alleged links to a far-right movement. British news agency “PA Media” recently reported that Marciniak came under scrutiny after he spoke at an event organized by Polish far-right leader Sawawomir Mintzn, and that his role was refereeing Manchester City and the Champions League final. Inter Milan in Istanbul on June 10, Italy doubtful.

But UEFA was convinced that Marciniak was “grossly misleading and ignorant of the true nature and implications of the event in which he took part”, and the European Union indicated it would retain Marciniak (42) to manage the match. “Following Marciniak’s statement, UEFA acknowledges the referee’s apology and clarification,” UEFA said.

He added, “UEFA contacted an NGO (Never Again) linked to the (Fair) Network (Football Against Racism in Europe) which raised initial concerns about Marticiniak’s participation in the event.” He insisted: “They demanded that Martychniak referee the final of the European Champions League, insisting that his exclusion from managing the competition would promote anti-discrimination.” And UEFA continued: “Based on the information provided, UEFA can confirm that Martychniak will referee the 2023 UEFA Champions League Final.” The “Never Again” anti-racism group reminded UEFA to exclude Marticinjak after the event at the International Convention Center in Katowice. “I express my sincere regret for my participation and for any distress or damage caused,” Martysiniak said in a statement.