Felix Zwayer to Referee England vs. Netherlands Euro Semi-Final Despite Controversial Past
Zwayer's History of Match-Fixing Controversy
Felix Zwayer, the German referee appointed to officiate England's Euro 2020 semi-final against the Netherlands, has a checkered past that has raised concerns among football fans.
Involvement in 2005 Match-Fixing Scandal
In 2005, Zwayer was implicated in a match-fixing scandal involving second division referee Robert Hoyzer. Hoyzer was found to have manipulated the results of several matches for financial gain, and Zwayer was alleged to have been involved in one of these games.
Zwayer initially denied any wrongdoing but later admitted to passing on information about matches to Hoyzer. However, he claimed that he did not know that Hoyzer was involved in match-fixing.
Suspension and Return to Refereeing
Zwayer was subsequently suspended by the German Football Association (DFB) for six months. After serving his suspension, he returned to refereeing and has since officiated at major matches, including the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Zwayer's appointment to referee England's semi-final against the Netherlands has sparked controversy, with some fans calling for him to be replaced due to his past involvement in match-fixing. However, UEFA has defended its decision, stating that Zwayer has served his punishment and is a qualified referee.
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