Maurizio Mariani, an Italian referee, and his officiating crew will wear 'flamingo pink' jerseys during Monday's World Cup Group H match between Uruguay and Saudi Arabia in Miami at 23:00 BST. The colour choice represents a tribute to Miami's iconic cultural associations and the city's hospitality toward FIFA personnel.
The pink colour reflects Miami's famous connections to flamingos, Art Deco architecture, and the convertible Cadillacs of Ocean Drive. FIFA's Chief Refereeing Officer Pierluigi Collina stated: "We thought it would be nice to show our appreciation to the city where we'll live for about two months. We chose this 'pink flamingo'—it's a sort of recognition."
FIFA President Gianni Infantino endorsed the initiative, saying: "Pink is the colour of Miami, and we want to give a little bit of a shout-out, to give a little bit of a smile to the city which is hosting us." The refereeing team has been based in South Florida in the lead-up to the tournament, forming local connections.
The distinctive kit maintains the practical function of official jerseys whilst providing visual novelty for the neutral-venue Group H fixture.
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