Do superstar soccer players like Messi get preferential treatment from referees? Evidence suggests yes, but less than fans think

Summary

This article examines whether superstar soccer players like Lionel Messi receive preferential treatment from referees. It argues that while some bias exists, it's less than fans typically believe. However, the disproportionate media attention on star players makes it impossible for them to receive a truly fair trial. Using Messi's tackle on Aissa Mandi in the World Cup as a case study, the article explores how officials subconsciously consider the consequences of penalizing a superstar, though the best referees manage to set those concerns aside.

Source

bskyDo superstar soccer players like Messi get preferential treatment from referees? Evidence suggests yes, but less than fans thinknytimes.com