Controversy in Milan Derby: Inter Denied Late Penalty Claim

The Milan derby on March 8, 2026, concluded amidst controversy as Inter Milan were denied a potential penalty in the closing moments of the match. The incident, involving a handball by Milan’s Samuele Ricci, sparked immediate protests from the Nerazzurri and ignited debate over the role of VAR.

The Incident: Ricci’s Handball

During injury time, with the scoreline poised, Inter launched a final attack. A header from Denzel Dumfries struck the arm of Samuele Ricci within the Milan penalty area. Inter players immediately appealed for a penalty, believing Ricci’s arm position warranted a spot-kick. However, referee Daniele Doveri waved play on, and the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) did not intervene to review the incident.

Referee’s Decision and VAR’s Non-Intervention

Referee Doveri’s decision not to award a penalty was based on his assessment that Ricci’s arm position was not deemed to be in an unnatural position, with the arm closing towards the body rather than extending towards the ball. Despite the protests, VAR, led by Rosario Abisso, chose not to recommend a review of the play. Goal.com reported on the controversy, highlighting the immediate reaction from Inter players.

Expert Analysis

According to Luca Marelli, a VAR analyst for DAZN, the decision was justifiable based on the current interpretation of the handball rule. He argued that Ricci’s arm movement was deemed natural and did not warrant a penalty. Fanpage.it detailed this analysis.

Other Notable Moments

Prior to the controversial incident, Inter had a goal disallowed as the game hadn’t officially restarted before the corner kick was taken. Referee Doveri had paused play to speak with players before the corner, leading to the goal being ruled out. Virgilio Sport reported on this earlier event in the match.

Referee Details

Daniele Doveri officiated the match, assisted by Giovanni Baccini and Alessio Berti. Matteo Marchetti served as the fourth official, while Rosario Abisso was on VAR, assisted by Marco Di Bello as AVAR. This was Doveri’s fourth Milan derby, having previously officiated matches in 2019, 2021 (twice), and 2025.

The Aftermath

The decision has sparked significant debate among fans and pundits, with many questioning why VAR did not intervene. Bar Italianews highlighted the immediate backlash from Inter supporters.