Serie A referee designator Gianluca Rocchi, 52, has suspended himself as Milan prosecutors launch an inquiry into alleged sporting fraud. The probe focuses on his role in selecting officials for Inter Milan matches and on a VAR decision that allowed Florian Thauvin to score. A preliminary hearing is set for Thursday before the season start.

Rocchi’s move follows a statement from the Italian Referees Association (AIA) that he stepped aside to keep the integrity of the game untouched. He said the decision protects referees, athletes and the sport itself. The AIA also confirmed that VAR supervisor Andrea Gervasoni has similarly withdrawn amid the investigation in this season's context and fans.

The allegations centre on Rocchi allegedly favouring Inter for a referee pick and pressuring a VAR official to reconsider a handball call that changed a Udinese‑Parma match outcome. Both incidents involve high‑profile games that could sway standings. Sporting fraud carries a maximum six‑year sentence, underscoring the gravity of the accusations in Italian football culture today.

Rocchi maintains that the self‑suspension will allow the judicial process to run smoothly and that he will emerge unscathed. He appealed to fans and colleagues not to let his personal circumstances tarnish the refereeing community. The outcome of the Thursday hearing will clarify his standing and could reshape how officials are appointed in Serie A.