A football referee identified as Pascal has reportedly been attacked at his residence following a public same-sex proposal that took place during a Bundesliga match between FC Cologne and Wolfsburg.
According to accounts circulating online, the referee proposed to his male partner in the stands shortly after the game, an act that included a brief kiss and was witnessed by fans in attendance. The incident quickly gained attention on social media and sparked mixed reactions.
Hours later, unknown assailants allegedly tracked down Pascal’s home, forced their way in, assaulted him, and issued threats to his life before fleeing the scene. The extent of his injuries has not been officially disclosed, and there has been no confirmed statement from German authorities as of the time of filing this report.
The attack has triggered widespread condemnation from football fans and human rights advocates, who have described it as a disturbing act of violence linked to intolerance. Many have called on football authorities to ensure the safety of officials and players, regardless of personal identity or beliefs.
Meanwhile, the incident has also reignited debate in some quarters of the football community. Critics have directed their anger at FIFA leadership, accusing the global football body of allowing what they describe as the “normalisation” of same-sex relationships in the sport. They argue that football should remain free from personal or political expressions, a stance that has been met with strong pushback from others who insist that inclusion and personal freedom have no place for violence or discrimination.
FIFA has not issued an official response addressing the criticism or the reported attack.
As investigations continue, calls are growing for calm, accountability, and a clear stand against violence in all its forms within the global football space.