Adolf Prokop, legendary FIFA referee, dies at 87

Adolf Prokop, a prominent German football referee, has died in Erfurt at the age of 87. Prokop was a highly decorated official who officiated at the 1978 and 1982 FIFA World Cups, the 1980 and 1984 European Championships, and the 1976 Montreal Olympics.

During his career, he officiated 283 matches in the DDR Oberliga between 1969 and 1988 and served on the FIFA referee list starting in 1973. His career highlights included officiating three major European club finals: the 1979 UEFA Super Cup, the 1981 UEFA Cup Final, and the 1984 European Cup Winners' Cup Final.

Prokop's legacy was marked by both professional success and political controversy. Following the reunification of Germany, it was revealed that he had served as a lieutenant colonel within the East German Ministry for State Security (Stasi). He remained active in football administration and mentoring young referees through the Thuringian Football Association for many years.