Referees are supposed to maintain fairness in sports, but sometimes their mistakes leave a lasting impact on the outcome. Whether it’s missed calls or controversial decisions, these moments live with fans forever. Here are 10 times when referee decisions changed the outcome of a major sporting moment.
Argentina vs. England, 1986 World Cup
In the 1986 World Cup quarterfinal against England, Argentinian legend Diego Maradona ended up scoring a goal with his hand. However, the referee did not see it, allowed the goal to stand, and Argentina ended up winning 2-1. This goal, known in history as the “Hand of God,” is one of the more controversial World Cup moments of all time.
Green Bay Packers vs. Seattle Seahawks, 2012 NFL Season
While trying to complete a Hail Mary pass to win the game, Seattle Seahawks player Golden Tate and Green Bay Packers player M.D. Jennings both seemed to gain control of the ball at the same time. But, the referees ruled it a touchdown for Tate and Seattle won the game 14-12.
France vs. Ireland, 2009 World Cup Qualifier
In a crucial World Cup qualifying match, French star Thierry Henry touched the ball with his hand before assisting William Gallas’s goal in extra time. And, while this goal ended up securing France’s qualification for the 2010 World Cup, it did lead to fans wanting video technology in soccer.
Kansas City Royals vs. St. Louis Cardinals, 1985 World Series
In Game 6 of the 1985 World Series, umpire Don Denkinger made an infamous error, ruling Royals’ Jorge Orta safe at first despite replays showing he was actually out. That decision fueled a Royals comeback and they ended up winning the game and the series.
Buffalo Sabres vs. Dallas Stars, 1999 Stanley Cup Final
In Game 6 of the 1999 Stanley Cup Final, Dallas Stars’ Brett Hull scored the winning goal with his skate in the crease, which was against the rules at the time. However, the refs allowed the goal to stand and Dallas won the Stanley Cup.
Floyd Mayweather vs. José Luis Castillo, 2002
In Floyd Mayweather and José Luis Castillo’s 2002 fight, many boxing experts believed Castillo had outperformed Mayweather. But, despite landing more punches, the judges actually ended up awarding Mayweather with the victory.
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New England Patriots vs. Oakland Raiders, 2002 AFC Divisional Playoff
Late in the 2002 AFC playoff game against the Patriots and the Raiders, it looked like Tom Brady fumbled the ball, which would have almost certainly ended the game. However, the refs said it was an incomplete pass, invoking the “Tuck Rule.”
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Chelsea vs. Barcelona, 2009 UEFA Champions League Semi-Final
In the second leg of the 2009 Champions League semifinal, the referee missed several clear penalties that should’ve gone against Barcelona. Instead, the game ended in a 1-1 draw and Barcelona advanced to the final.
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The 1972 Olympic Men’s Basketball Final, USA vs. USSR
With the USA leading by a point in the 1972 Olympic men’s basketball final, the final three seconds were replayed twice after a series of referee decisions. Then, on the third attempt, the USSR scored, winning 51-50. This ending was so controversial that the US players even refused to accept their silver medals.
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New Orleans Saints vs. Los Angeles Rams, 2019 NFC Championship
A blatant missed pass interference call in the fourth quarter prevented the New Orleans Saints from extending their lead against the Los Angeles Rams. In fact, the non-call allowed the Rams to tie the game and actually win in overtime.
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