**Refereeing Conspiracy Theories: Nonsense Rooted in Genuine Concerns** As fans increasingly feel alienated from the sport and clubs they cherish, often due to the influence of wealthy owners, they find themselves directing their frustrations toward a familiar target: referees. The latest weekend of football brought yet another wave of contentious debates surrounding VAR and officiating. During a match at Bournemouth, Arsenal supporters labeled referee Robert Jones as “a cheat” and accused the Premier League of being “corrupt.” The outrage on social media was even more pronounced. While complaints about referees are nothing new—historically, fans have called them “blind” or used expletives to express their disdain—the recent allegations of systemic corruption represent a notable shift in tone. This phenomenon may reflect the broader societal climate, characterized by distortions and paranoia fueled by a variety of populist figures, from José Mourinho to Donald Trump. The rise of social media has only exacerbated the spread of conspiracy theories, flourishing in the aftermath of the Covid pandemic. However, there may be deeper, more complex issues at play. In this evolving landscape, it’s essential to recognize that while the conspiracy theories surrounding refereeing may be unfounded, they often arise from legitimate fears and frustrations among fans. As the game continues to change, so too will the dynamics of how supporters engage with it, particularly regarding the officials who play a crucial role in its integrity.