Giulio Campanati officiated 166 matches in Serie A between 1952 and 1966, establishing a decade-long career as an international referee for both UEFA and FIFA. Beyond his time on the pitch, he occupied a central position in the administrative structure of Italian football for nearly two decades while managing his own professional interests as an entrepreneur.
Refereeing Career
Campanati began his work as a Serie A referee in 1952, continuing in that capacity until 1966. His officiating duties extended to significant competitions, including the 1964 Coppa Italia final and the second leg of the 1962 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup final. His performance on the field earned him the Giovanni Mauro Award in 1960, recognizing him as the top referee of that season.
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Following his retirement from active officiating in 1966, Campanati transitioned into a role as a referee administrator. His influence grew throughout the 1970s and 1980s as he served as the President of the Italian Referees Association from 1972 until 1990. This long tenure saw him guide the development of officiating standards within the Italian football framework.
Business and Recognition
Parallel to his sporting involvements, Campanati pursued a career as an entrepreneur in Italy. His professional life and public service were acknowledged through several honors, including the Ambrogino d'oro and the title of Commander of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. In 2000, he received the UEFA Order of Merit in Ruby. Following his death in Milan in 2011, he was posthumously inducted into the Italian Football Hall of Fame in 2013.
Fast facts
- Born: 12 June 1923, Milan
- Died: 30 October 2011, Milan
- Serie A matches refereed: 166
- President of the Italian Referees Association: 1972-1990
- Giovanni Mauro Award winner: 1960
- Burial site: Monumental Cemetery of Milan
Questions readers ask
What was the duration of his tenure as President of the Italian Referees Association?
He served in this position for 18 years, from 1972 to 1990.
Was he involved in international football matches?
Yes, he served as an international referee for UEFA and FIFA for ten years and officiated the second leg of the 1962 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup final.
Achievements
- Commander of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic