FIFA President Condemns Death Threats Against Referee Katia Garcia

Katia Itzel Garcia received death threats after officiating a recent match

FIFA president Gianni Infantino condemns death threats against referee Katia Itzel Garcia after her performance in the Leagues Cup match between FC Cincinnati and Monterrey. Infantino expresses support for Garcia and denounces online abuse.

“I am dismayed and saddened by the threats against referee Katia Itzel following her performance in the Leagues Cup...”

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has expressed support for referee Katia Itzel Garcia following the death threats she received after a Leagues Cup match. The threats were made after Garcia officiated the match between FC Cincinnati and Monterrey.

#FIFA president Gianni Infantino expressed support for referee Katia Itzel Garcia and the Mexican Football Federation after the official revealed she was subjected to online abuse following a Leagues Cup match.

Garcia, who has officiated in other men's competitions including… pic.twitter.com/zii0BaOZXU

— Alkass English (@alkassenglish) August 5, 2025

Garcia, an experienced referee who has officiated in men's competitions like Liga MX, the Gold Cup, and the Olympic Games, faced online abuse after the match. The Mexican Football Federation (FMF) has also received support from Infantino amid the controversy.

Katia Itzel Garcia's decision to award a goal to FC Cincinnati, which appeared to be offside, sparked outrage among Monterrey fans. The MLS side went on to win the match 3-2.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino expressed his support for Garcia, saying, “I am dismayed and saddened by the threats against referee Katia Itzel following her performance in the Leagues Cup first round matches between Monterrey and Cincinnati.”

“There is no place in football and society for abuse, discrimination and violence of any kind.

“At FIFA, we stand in solidarity with the FMF and CONCACAF in condemning the actions of those who make these unacceptable threats. We offer our unconditional support in holding those responsible to account.”

The FMF said in a statement on Saturday that it “will advise and accompany Garcia in the complaint process before the corresponding authorities.”