Facundo Tello Figueroa, born in Bahía Blanca in 1982, did not always dream of being a referee. In fact, his path to refereeing was almost a coincidence: he began his training to accompany a friend, without imagining that he would end up stepping on the biggest stages of world football. Over time, that decision turned into passion, and passion into excellence. Today, Tello is one of the Argentine referees most recognized internationally, with a sober, firm, and very physical style, capable of making difficult decisions without hesitation.
One of the most striking milestones of his career occurred on November 6, 2022, when he refereed the Trofeo de Campeones final between Boca Juniors and Racing Club. That match turned into a major scandal: Tello sent off 10 players (7 from Boca and 3 from Racing), in one of the most controversial and talked-about performances in recent years in Argentine football. Despite the criticism, his determination to enforce the rules without yielding to pressure set a clear precedent of authority in the midst of a disguised brawl as a final.
His style is characterized by being strict and very rule-oriented, but without losing composure. He relies on excellent physical preparation that allows him to be close to the action and have authority from his positioning. He is known for being unforgiving with repeated protests, and does not hesitate to show cards if he perceives provocations or unsportsmanlike behavior.
Tello is a referee of strong decisions and unflappable character, forged in the crucible of the Argentine Superliga. His name is already part of the select group of South American referees capable of officiating in international finals and World Cups, always leaving the feeling that, in his matches, authority is guaranteed.
Argentina
