Pierluigi Collina was born on February 13, 1960 in Italy. He grew up with a passion for soccer, which eventually led him on the path to becoming one of the most respected referees in the sport. After completing his primary and secondary education, Collina went on to attend the University of Bologna, where he graduated with a degree in economics in 1981.
Collina began his career as a soccer referee in the 1980s, officiating matches in Italy's Serie A. His exceptional skills and knowledge of the game quickly caught the attention of soccer fans and officials alike. He was known for his fairness, professionalism, and impeccable judgment on the field.
In 1995, Collina became an international referee and went on to officiate matches in various international competitions, including the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA World Cup. He gained a reputation as one of the best referees in the world, earning accolades and awards for his outstanding performance.
Collina's crowning achievement came in 2003 when he was named FIFA's Best Referee of the Year for the sixth consecutive time. This record-breaking feat solidified his status as one of the greatest referees in the history of soccer.
In 2010, Collina transitioned into a new role as the Head of Referees for the Football Federation of Ukraine. In this position, he was responsible for overseeing and training referees in Ukraine, ensuring that matches were officiated according to the highest standards of fairness and integrity.
Outside of his professional career, Collina is a family man. He has daughters with his partner, Gianna, whom he met in Versilia. Despite his busy schedule as a referee and administrator, Collina always made time for his loved ones and valued the importance of a strong support system.
In addition to his dedication to soccer, Collina has faced personal challenges, including developing a severe form of alopecia. Despite this, he remained resilient and continued to excel in his career, inspiring others with his determination and perseverance.
Collina's impact on the world of soccer is enduring. In 2011, he was inducted into the Italian Football Hall of Fame, a testament to his contributions to the sport as a referee and leader. He is remembered for his exceptional skill, unwavering professionalism, and dedication to upholding the integrity of the game.
Collina's influence extends beyond the soccer field. He is admired for his humility, grace under pressure, and commitment to excellence. Alongside fellow referee Howard Webb, Collina is recognized as one of soccer's greatest referees, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire future generations of officials and players alike.
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