Referee Christophe Ridley will take charge of the Six Nations clash between Wales and Italy in Cardiff on Saturday. The French-born official, who made his Six Nations debut in 2024, has already been at the centre of controversy during his short tenure in the tournament.
Ridley, 31, began his professional refereeing career in 2016 and has since officiated in the Premiership, Champions Cup, and Challenge Cup. He made his United Rugby Championship debut in 2022 and was an assistant referee at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, working on matches involving Wales, Australia, Fiji, and Ireland.
His Six Nations debut in 2024 saw Italy draw 13-13 with France, but the match was marred by a controversial incident. Italy were awarded a last-minute penalty, but fly-half Paolo Garbisi's kick hit the upright after he was forced to rush due to French players advancing before the kick. World Rugby regulations suggest Italy should have been awarded a penalty 10 metres further forward, but the officials did not intervene.
Off the pitch, Ridley has been vocal about referee standards. In 2022, he publicly criticised former England footballer Gary Neville on social media after Neville called a World Cup referee a 'joke'. Ridley warned that such comments damage the game and deter officials.
Ridley's partner Katie revealed in a 2023 interview that he often reviews his performances late into the night, striving for perfection. 'He beats himself up – he really wants perfection,' she said.
Italy are seeking their third win of the tournament, which would secure their best-ever Six Nations finish, while Wales aim to end a losing streak.
