Collina must drop new sponsor

PIERLUIGI Collina, widely considered the world’s best referee, will not be allowed officiate this season unless he drops his new sponsor.

The 45-year-old official is now sponsored by the same company that sponsors Serie A giants AC Milan and the Italian football federation (FIGC) see that as a conflict of interest.

Collina, who has won the world’s best referee award six times, has been given the ultimatum by FIGC president Franco Carraro.

Collina reached the retirement age for Italian referees this year but the FIGC allowed him carry on for another season because of his excellent reputation.

He will be able to handle Italian league and Champions League matches up to June 30 next year but will be ruled out of the 2006 World Cup.