Irfan Peljto
Arbitre venu de Bosnie-Herzégovine, il s’est imposé en silence au niveau européen. Irfan Peljto, c’est la rigueur du centre de l’Europe appliquée aux soirées de Ligue des Champions. Pour l’OM, il s’apprête à découvrir l’ambiance brûlante d’un Real–Marseille, où chaque coup de sifflet comptera.
ID Card — Key Facts
Irfan Peljto was born in 1984, in Sarajevo. Coming from the Bosnian federation, he grew up in a context where football and refereeing were ways to rebuild social ties after the war. A FIFA referee since 2015, he officiated in his national league before gradually making a name for himself in Europe. Known for his composure and strict discipline, he has become one of UEFA’s trusted referees for the group stage of the Champions League and the Europa League.
He refereed his first European matches in 2019, mainly in qualifying rounds. Since 2021, he has regularly officiated in the Champions League, particularly in high-profile clashes:
- Atlético – Porto (2021)
- Inter – Sheriff (2021)
- Real Sociedad – Manchester United (2022, Europa League)
- Bayern – Copenhagen (2023)
His profile: a rigorous referee, not very demonstrative, who applies a strict but consistent line. His VAR management is considered correct, sometimes a little slow, but he is praised for his neutrality and his absence of “personal show.” In Bosnia, he is regarded as the number one referee and an ambassador of the country on the European stage.
What the Marseillais Say
Since he has never refereed OM before, his appointment for Real Madrid – OM on September 16, 2025 is a first. And thus, an unknown. But in Marseille, they know very well that this kind of designation is not insignificant: UEFA is sending a serious referee, reputed for not trembling at the Bernabéu.
Excitement is rising, as his style could benefit our colors:
- The man who breaks the rhythm: he quickly whistles fouls in midfield, which can disrupt Madrid’s fluidity and provide valuable set-pieces.
- Impartial but strict: he does not tolerate excessive protests. Our captain and the more hot-tempered players must be careful: arguing can be costly.
- Cards given consistently: he doesn’t hand out red cards lightly, but he systematically penalizes dangerous fouls. OM fullbacks will need to be vigilant against Spanish dribblers.
OM’s History with this Referee
Irfan Peljto has still never refereed OM in the Champions League, but he is familiar with our team thanks to two previous European encounters:
| Date | Competition | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16/09/2021 | Europa League | Lokomotiv Moscow (away) | 1-1 |
| 10/03/2022 | Conference League | FC Basel (home) | 2-1 |
Key Trends for OM
- Peljto likes to keep the match under control: fouls are penalized quickly, but he avoids excessive zeal.
- He doesn’t award many penalties: he is a cautious referee, who requires clear and undeniable contact.
- His average number of bookings is considered slightly above the UEFA average, notably for “protesting” and “repeated fouls.”
For OM, this means they will need to play tight and disciplined, while trying to take advantage of Madrid’s fouls to earn dangerous free-kicks.
VAR & High-Pressure Matches
Peljto has refereed several high-pressure matches, particularly in Spain and Italy. He is known for staying in the background, but he does not hesitate to use VAR to confirm his decisions. Although sometimes slow to communicate his calls, he remains consistent in his choices and above all: he does not let himself be intimidated by any stadium.
What to Expect Against Real
When Irfan Peljto is in charge, one can expect:
- strict management of emotions,
- little room for disputes,
- a match that can get broken up if things get too physical.
For OM, the story begins now. And if tomorrow his name enters supporters’ memories alongside a Letexier or a Turpin, it may be thanks to a magical night in Madrid.