Portuguese football arbitration controversy prompts Sporting CP response

A dispute over referee appointments in Portuguese football intensified after Duarte Gomes resigned as the national technical director of arbitration, alleging irregularities. Sporting CP president Frederico Varandas said the club is closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the need for an independent, autonomous Arbitration Council free from club or federation influence. He warned that any proof of interference would require immediate action, stating, “The accusation of Duarte Gomes is of enormous seriousness. He must provide proof of what happened.” The episode has revived concerns about past refereeing scandals and calls for greater transparency in the sport’s governance.