OM – Strasbourg: Jérémie Pignard to referee the Phocéens again

Friday night’s match at La Meinau between Strasbourg and OM will be officiated by Jérémie Pignard, the French international referee already familiar with high-pressure Ligue 1 clashes. A choice that doesn’t go unnoticed on the Olympian side, since he had already crossed paths with the Phoceans in the season opener during their defeat in Rennes (1-0).

A referee who already knows OM this season

Promoted to FIFA in 2021, Jérémie Pignard has established himself as one of the referees of the new generation. Accustomed to big matches, he has already officiated OM several times, including the game against Rennes in early August. That evening, he did not hesitate to send off Aït Boudlal as early as the 31st minute for a heavy tackle, leaving Marseille down to ten men. Career record with OM: 9 wins, 3 draws, 4 losses under his whistle.

VAR and European rigor

At VAR, Pignard will be assisted by Eric Wattellier and Christian Guillard. A team already used to working together, with an approach carefully watched by Marseille fans. Because Pignard’s style is well known: rigorous refereeing, close to UEFA standards, allowing play to flow but punishing fouls and dissent harshly.

Supporters still remember the Brest–OM episode of April 2023, when he sent off Leonardo Balerdi… only for VAR to overturn the decision. A powerful image, reminding both of his strictness and his ability to reconsider.

Marseille under scrutiny

OM has been warned: with Pignard, discipline will be key. Arguing, tactical fouls, and displays of frustration will be punished. But his European experience also ensures a level of consistency and an ability to manage tense moments without being swayed by the atmosphere.

For the Olympians, it will therefore be about showing control and maturity to avoid any nasty surprises. After toppling Paris, OM will need to stay focused on their game… and not give the referee the chance to influence the outcome.

A respected referee, but not forgotten. Between firmness and mixed memories, Jérémie Pignard will be at the heart of an already fiery Strasbourg–OM.