Sports fans understand the importance of timing, as well as every decision made on the field. A referee's split-second decision can determine the outcome of games, championships, and athletic legacies. The best offshore sportsbooks react quickly to these game-changing events, adjusting odds as the controversy unfolds. Throughout sports history, certain officiating decisions have been notorious for their impact and the heated debates they continue to spark among athletes and fans.
1. Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God”
One of the most controversial moments in football history took place during the 1986 FIFA World Cup when Diego Maradona scored the infamous "Hand of God" goal against England. Instead of using his head, he punched the ball into the net, but the referee, Ali Bin Nasser, failed to spot the handball. Despite the clear infraction, the goal stood, helping Argentina secure a 2-1 victory on their way to winning the tournament.
2. The 1972 Olympic Basketball Final
Cold War tensions reached the basketball court during the 1972 Olympic final between the United States and Soviet Union. With the United States leading 50-49, officials gave the Soviets several extra attempts after time ran out. Alexander Belov scored the winning basket during the third restart. The American team refused their silver medals, and the incident remains a black mark on Olympic officiating.
3. Match-Fixing Referee
In Game 6 of the 2002 Western Conference Finals, the Los Angeles Lakers were favored over the Sacramento Kings due to questionable officiating. The Lakers attempted 27 free throws in the fourth quarter alone. Tim Donaghy, a former referee who was later found guilty of match-fixing, indicated that this game was deliberately manipulated to extend the series and help the Lakers.
4. The Fail Mary
The NFL faced embarrassment in 2012 during a referee strike. Replacement officials oversaw a game between Green Bay and Seattle that ended in chaos. On the final play, Seattle's Golden Tate and Green Bay's M.D. Jennings both caught a Hail Mary pass. Officials ruled it a touchdown for Seattle despite evidence of an interception. The league settled with regular officials shortly afterward.
5. Roy Jones Jr. and Bribed Judges
Boxing fans still discuss the 1988 Olympic gold medal match. Roy Jones Jr. dominated Park Si-Hun, landing 86 punches to his opponent's 32. Shockingly, judges awarded Park the victory. Investigations later revealed bribes to three of the five judges, marking this as one of sports' most corrupt officiating scandals.
6. The “Tuck Rule” Game
The 2001 AFC Divisional Playoffs changed the course of NFL history forever. Tom Brady appeared to fumble late in the fourth quarter of the New England Patriots vs. Oakland Raiders "Tuck Rule" game. Officials cited an obscure rule and referred to it as an incomplete pass. New England maintained possession, won in overtime, and established a championship dynasty.
7. Frank Lampard’s Ghost Goal
Frank Lampard believed he had scored a crucial equalizer for England against Germany in the 2010 World Cup. His shot crossed the goal line but was overlooked by officials. Germany maintained its momentum and won 4-1. This incident prompted FIFA to implement goal-line technology in following tournaments.
8. The Thierry Henry Handball
Football qualifying matches carry enormous stakes. In 2009, France faced Ireland with a World Cup spot on the line. Thierry Henry controlled the ball with his hand before assisting William Gallas for the decisive goal. This missed call sent France to South Africa at Ireland's expense and accelerated calls for video review in soccer.
9. Michael Jordan’s Push-Off
Michael Jordan sealed his legacy with his final shot as a Chicago Bull in the 1998 NBA Finals. Many Utah Jazz fans believe he pushed defender Bryon Russell before shooting the championship-winning jumper. With no fouls called, Chicago won their sixth championship in eight years.
10. Jim Joyce’s Blown Call
In 2010, Detroit Tigers pitcher Armando Galarraga nearly had a perfect game, recording 26 consecutive outs. Jim Joyce, the first base umpire, incorrectly ruled the 27th batter safe. Replays revealed that the runner was out, but Galarraga missed his chance at baseball immortality. Joyce later admitted his mistake, but the record books remained unchanged.