Refereeing decisions can define a World Cup campaign, and England's group-stage opener against Croatia will be overseen by a referee who has already clashed with their manager and physically moved one of their star players. French official Clément Turpin has been appointed for the match, bringing a mix of elite experience and recent controversy to the biggest stage.
Turpin is one of Europe's most respected referees, having taken charge of the 2021 Europa League final and the 2022 Champions League final. He also officiated at Euro 2024, including England's 0-0 draw with Slovenia. This will be his third World Cup. But his reputation has been tested by high-profile incidents involving England manager Thomas Tuchel and midfielder Jude Bellingham.
“Why the referee for England's World Cup opener against Croatia has history with Thomas Tuchel and Jude Bellingham.”
In April 2023, Tuchel was coaching Bayern Munich in a Champions League quarter-final second leg against Manchester City. Turpin showed Tuchel two yellow cards and sent him to the stands. He also produced five yellow cards in the first half and a straight red for Bayern defender Dayot Upamecano that was later overturned by VAR. Bayern lost 4-1 on aggregate, and afterwards Tuchel said: "Two things couldn't keep up with the level - the pitch wasn't in good condition and also the referee, unfortunately, was Grade E. I'd give him a one out of 10. He was absolutely terrible."
Later that season, during a Champions League semi-final between Bayern and Real Madrid, Bellingham - then playing for Real - tried to distract Bayern's Harry Kane before a penalty. Turpin physically pushed Bellingham away from the spot. Kane said afterwards: "I'm sure he was saying something to try and put me off but, thankfully, it was OK." The incident sparked debate about Turpin's no-nonsense style.
For England fans, the appointment adds an extra layer of intrigue to a crucial match. Tuchel will lead England for the first time in a competitive fixture, and his past criticism of Turpin means every decision will be scrutinised. Bellingham will also be wary after their previous encounter. Turpin is known for letting the game flow but can be strict with discipline - his handling of the Bayern-Real tie showed he is not afraid to intervene physically if he feels players are overstepping.
The match is England's opening game in Group L of the 2026 World Cup, and a positive result is vital for momentum. Turpin's style could influence how both teams approach tackles and time-wasting. England will hope his presence does not overshadow their performance.
Q: Who is Clement Turpin? A: Clément Turpin is a French referee widely regarded as one of Europe's best. He has officiated major finals including the 2022 Champions League final and the 2021 Europa League final, and has been selected for his third World Cup.
Q: Why did Thomas Tuchel call Turpin 'Grade E'? A: After a 2023 Champions League quarter-final where Turpin sent him to the stands with two yellow cards, Tuchel described the referee as "Grade E" and said he would give him a score of one out of ten, calling his performance "absolutely terrible."
Q: What happened between Turpin and Jude Bellingham? A: During a Champions League semi-final in the 2023-24 season, Turpin physically pushed Bellingham away from the penalty spot as the Englishman tried to distract Harry Kane before a spot-kick. Bellingham was mumbling something, but Kane said he was able to block it out.
What happens next: The match between England and Croatia takes place on Wednesday. Turpin's handling of the game will be closely watched, especially given his history with Tuchel and Bellingham. A strong, controversy-free performance from the referee would be welcomed by both sides as they aim to start the tournament positively.