With No Team At The World Cup, Chinese Are Rallying Around a Referee
Summary
The World Cup begins without China’s team, but Chinese fans are supporting referee Ma Ning, the first Chinese official to referee two World Cups. Ma Ning is known for strict refereeing and has gained popularity on social media while also endorsing major Chinese brands.Key Facts
- China’s men’s national soccer team has not qualified for the World Cup since 2002.
- Ma Ning, age 46, is the first Chinese referee appointed to two FIFA World Cups (2022 and 2026).
- Chinese social media shows strong support for Ma Ning, with over 25 million views on the topic “Ma Ning.”
- Ma is nicknamed the “Card Master” for giving many red and yellow cards in games.
- Ma teaches sports courses at Nanjing University of Sport and became a FIFA-listed referee in 2011.
- He has refereed major Asian soccer competitions such as the AFC Asian Cup and AFC Champions League.
- Ma is serving as a brand ambassador for Chinese companies including Lenovo, Hisense, and Mengniu during the World Cup.
- The 2026 World Cup is hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, opening with Mexico vs. South Africa.
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