Yesterday it was announced that top referee Matija Gubica has been suspended for three years by the EHF. Information in Croatian media hands us clues as to why he is suspended.
It is not everyday news that a referee who officiated at the Olympics, World Championships, EHF EUROs and EHF Final four is suspended. For three years. Yesterday’s statement from the EHF rocked handball Europe but was still leaving a big question mark as to why Gubica is suspended.
However, information in Croatian media Vecernji list may guide us to the foundation of EHF’s decision. According to Vecernji list Gubica has been betting on handball games, a violation of ethic codes for referees (and players and coaches). Traces of the betting was left on his phone and even though there are small amounts involved it is still a violation.
Gubica has been dismissed from his position as vice president of the Association of Croatian Handball Referees.
Read yesterday’s story about the suspension through this link: