Clément Turpin defines referees as those who dare

Clément Turpin used his recognition as the world’s best referee in 2025 to offer a personal definition of the profession: referees are the people willing to take decisions others would avoid. He also linked that courage to the legal framework that shaped professional refereeing in France.

Turpin was honoured on Monday evening in Paris during an event marking the 20th anniversary of the Lamour law, named after former sports minister Jean-François Lamour. The legislation reaffirmed referees’ independence, recognised their public-service role and clarified aspects of their tax status. The ceremony took place at the French Football Federation headquarters in the 15th arrondissement, with Lamour and FFF president Philippe Diallo present.

In his address, Turpin associated his award with Nicolas Danos and Benjamin Pagès, the assistants who worked alongside him throughout the season. He also paid tribute to France’s 25,082 football referees, describing them as committed people who make organised competition possible for players of all ages.

Turpin then turned his definition back towards Lamour, thanking the former minister for having taken the initiative two decades ago when others had not. His remarks placed the elite official’s individual honour within the wider French refereeing structure and recognised both the grassroots officials and the legislation that supports the profession.