Referee of Europa League final pelted by AS Roma fans at airport

José Mourinho called him an “idiot. AS Roma fans went even further. Referee Anthony Taylor and his family were besieged at Budapest airport by Italian supporters, according to images circulating on social media.

Panic is visible in his partner’s eyes as the situation threatens to get out of hand. Dozens of Roman fans stand around the referee. There is chanting, shouting, pushing and throwing drinks. A chair is even thrown, but by then Taylor, under escort, is safe in a room down the hall.

The English Referees Association has since responded to the footage. “We are appalled at the unjust and appalling behavior towards Anthony and his family,” it sounds in a statement. “We will continue to give our full support to them.”

According to Roma coach Mourinho, who lost a European final for the first time, the Englishman whistled at his team’s disadvantage. The Italians lost the final to Sevilla after penalty kicks.