Referees in the Bundesliga stand firm: "Boundaries Violated"
Spilling Ink on the Field: Unsettling Stance in the Austrian Bundesliga
The rustle of paper and the stench of officialdom aren't usually associated with high-octane football action. But in the current Austrian Bundesliga season, the situation is far from ordinary. The league referees recently released a joint statement, expressing concerns over the extraordinary circumstances they've been facing.
"Open Season" on Austrian Referees
While admitting that Austrian referees aren't infallible, they've drawn a line at becoming the target of an 'open season'. The statement alludes to the barrage of criticism, particularly against referee Sebastian Gishamer following Sturm Graz’s defeat against Austria Wien. They decry the 'hatred and hate campaigns' launched against individual referees online, including the publishing of their home addresses and threats of violence.
Whose Fault Is It?
The statement indirectly blames the league and criticizes Sturm Graz president Christian Jauk, without naming him. They argue that inconsistent penalties for offenses and club presidents storming onto the pitch post-match can contribute to further excesses.
Setting an Example
The referees plan to set an example this coming weekend, imploring everyone involved to remember the values of fairness and respect in the heat of the game.
Derby Fever
In other Bundesliga news, the Vienna Derby has been a talking point. Learn why Austria Wien might have the upper hand this time, relive the scandals since 2005, and explore the passion of legends like Krankl and Prohaska. Or, head over to our website for the latest Bundesliga news.
Disclaimer: This content may contain sensitive topics. We encourage respectful conversations and reject any form of hate or violence.
Enrichment Data:- Incidents of hate and threats against referee Sebastian Gishamer have surfaced, primarily after a match between Sturm and Austria Wien.- The incidents suggest intense level of public and possibly media pressure against the referee, which can impact his emotional and psychological wellbeing as well as reputation.- The Austrian Football Association (ÖFB) has condemned the hate campaigns against Gishamer and emphasized the need for respect and fair treatment of referees.- Legal and disciplinary actions might be taken against those who incite hate or make threats, but specific actions in Gishamer's case are not detailed.- The broader football community, including players, coaches, and fans, play a crucial role in supporting referees and promoting a culture of respect and understanding.
- The Austrian referees, in their joint statement, have highlighted the 'open season' targeting them, a reference to the escalating criticism and hate campaigns against individual referees, particularly Sebastian Gishamer after the match between Sturm Graz and Austria Wien.
- The referees have pointed fingers at the league and specifically highlighted the inconsistent penalties for offenses and the potential impact of club presidents storming onto the pitch post-match, contributing to further excesses and 'hatred and hate campaigns' against them.
- Aiming to set an example, the referees plan to emphasize the values of fairness and respect during the upcoming games in the face of the current unsettling stance in the Austrian Bundesliga.
- The Vienna Derby, on the other hand, continues to be a talking point in the European football leagues, with Austria Wien showing potential signs of dominance in the upcoming matches, a stark contrast to the controversies surrounding the refereeing mistakes in the current season.
