Grêmio hires former referee Leonardo Gaciba as arbitration consultant

Grêmio has announced the hiring of Leonardo Gaciba as an arbitration consultant. Gaciba, a former FIFA referee and former head of the CBF arbitration commission, will hold a strategic role aimed at guiding players and technical staff on match rules and conduct.

His responsibilities include acting as a liaison between the club and various football governing bodies, including the Federação Gaúcha de Futebol (FGF), CBF, Conmebol, and FIFA. He will also analyze refereeing performances after matches, producing reports to help the team understand officiating decisions and avoid disciplinary issues.

The appointment comes amid frequent changes to football regulations and interpretations, particularly regarding VAR and new CBF rules. Analysts suggest Gaciba’s extensive professional network and experience could help the club stay informed about immediate regulatory updates and shifting interpretations of the game.