German referee files lawsuit against DFB over alleged age discrimination
Yasmine Green
Dailysports's expert
Translated by the editors
Francisco Lágora, a 28-year-old German football referee, has filed a lawsuit against the German Football Association (DFB) after being barred from officiating matches in the 3. Liga due to his age, reports Bild.
Lágora had topped the rankings of his local and regional associations, earning a nomination to officiate at a higher level. In Germany, regional associations annually nominate top-performing referees for promotion to the 3. Liga and beyond. However, Lágora’s case hit a roadblock.
According to DFB regulations, only referees under the age of 25 are eligible to officiate matches in the 3. Liga. As Lágora exceeds this age limit, he was denied the opportunity to advance.
Outraged by what he considers unjust treatment, Lágora decided to take legal action against the DFB, seeking compensation.
"This is extremely unfair! Of course, there are reasons for certain age restrictions. But in my case, the question is whether being 28 years old really makes me ineligible. For me, it’s not about the money; it’s about justice. Many of my colleagues are also uncomfortable with these age restrictions but are afraid to speak out. This is a systemic issue," said Lágora.
The case is currently being reviewed by the Sports Court of the West German Football Association and the Bonn Labor Court.
