An editorial from Beijing Evening News has criticized referee Ma Ning for his officiating style, claiming it negatively impacts the rhythm and entertainment value of football matches. The article draws a comparison to the classic Chinese comedy sketch “Protagonist and Supporting Role,” arguing that on the pitch, players should always be the protagonists, while referees, coaches, and fans naturally assume supporting roles.
Ma Ning, a three-time Chinese Super League Golden Whistle winner and a member of the 2026 World Cup officiating panel, is known for his strict adherence to accuracy and authority. However, the newspaper contends that his tendency to frequently interrupt play—often highlighted by repeated VAR checks—makes him an unwelcome center of attention.
During the recent Beijing Guoan vs. Shanghai Port match, Ma Ning’s interventions reportedly led to three or four VAR stoppages, resulting in over 20 minutes of added time across both halves. The piece argues that even high-quality play suffers when such disruptions compromise the game’s flow and spectator enjoyment.
In contrast, the article points to French referee François Letexier, who officiated the 2024 European Championship final and has been praised by European media for his ability to stay “almost invisible,” a sign of excellence in the profession. It also references the Chinese Basketball Association’s past initiative to “give the game back to the players,” aiming to prevent referees from becoming decisive factors in match outcomes.
The central message is clear: the focus must remain on the players, with all others fulfilling their designated roles unobtrusively to ensure fans can enjoy the beautiful game to its fullest.