China didn’t qualify for the World Cup. But its fans still have a star: a card-wielding referee
China Didn’t Qualify for the World Cup. But Its Fans Still Have a Star: A Card-Wielding Referee
China didn t qualify for the World – While the World Cup traditionally celebrates the triumphant return of national teams, this year’s Chinese squad faced disappointment, missing out on qualification for the first time in over two decades. In a unique twist, the nation’s soccer enthusiasts found an unexpected hero in Ma Ning, a referee whose strict demeanor and card-issuing prowess have earned him the moniker “Card Master.” Despite the team’s absence, Ma has become a symbol of pride, with his performances drawing immense public attention and support across social media platforms.
A Referee’s Rise in the Spotlight
Ma Ning’s reputation as a fierce and impartial official took root during a pivotal moment in 2015. During a heated Shanghai derby, he handed out nine yellow cards and three reds, a display of decisiveness that went viral on social media. Though his actions had sparked debate among fans, the incident solidified his status as a symbol of rigorous officiating. Over the years, his reputation for consistency has sometimes made him a target of criticism, with spectators frequently vocalizing their frustrations during domestic matches. Yet, his presence on the World Cup stage has transformed him into a unifying figure for the country.
“Other countries watch their own teams play matches, we watch our own referee hand out cards,” one user of the Chinese social media platform RedNote wrote.
China’s social media landscape has shifted dramatically, with Ma Ning now at the center of a national conversation. Hashtags related to his performance generate millions of views, reflecting a collective embrace of his role as a representative of the country on the international stage. His journey from a controversial figure to a beloved icon highlights the power of sports to transcend borders and unite fans, even in the face of a team’s shortcomings.
The Card Master’s Journey
Ma’s rise has been marked by a blend of challenge and triumph. For over a decade, he has officiated at the highest level of professional soccer in China, including matches in the Super League. His international assignments, such as games in the AFC Champions League, have further established his credibility. Since becoming a FIFA-certified referee in 2011, Ma has gained recognition for his precision and authority, culminating in his World Cup debut in Qatar four years ago. This year, he is back on the global stage, accompanied by two other Chinese officials: assistant referee Zhou Fei and video assistant referee Fu Ming.
His return to the World Cup is not just a personal milestone but a reflection of China’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its presence in international soccer. While the national team struggles to qualify, Ma’s role as the only Chinese referee at the event has brought a unique form of national pride. Fans have embraced him with enthusiasm, even as they acknowledge his controversial past.
“You don’t need a boarding card, just show them a red one,” another RedNote user wrote.
The support Ma receives is evident in his growing social media following. Since launching his RedNote account last month, he has amassed over 210,000 followers, a testament to his appeal. A recent post shared a photo of him outside an airport, captioned “Let’s go!” as he prepared for the tournament, which kicked off on Thursday with matches across Mexico, Canada, and the US. The humor and camaraderie in online comments, such as a Weibo user quipping, “His luggage is probably all filled with yellow and red cards,” underscore the lighthearted yet passionate connection fans have with him.
China’s Soccer Dreams and the Road to Recovery
Ma’s journey mirrors the broader narrative of China’s soccer ambitions. The nation’s only World Cup appearance was in 2002, ending in the group stage after failing to score a single goal. Since then, the government has invested heavily in the sport, signing top foreign stars and unveiling a blueprint to become a “first-class soccer superpower” by 2050. President Xi Jinping, a self-proclaimed fan, once articulated three aspirations: qualifying for the World Cup, hosting it, and eventually winning it. These goals, though unfulfilled, have driven decades of strategic development.
However, progress has been uneven. Financial missteps, alleged high-level corruption, a prolonged pandemic, and a property crisis have all stalled momentum. Despite these challenges, Ma Ning’s recent popularity signals a renewed optimism. For many, his presence at the tournament represents more than just a spectator role; it’s a reminder that soccer can thrive in unexpected ways, even when the team is absent.
“I only know famous players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi, and Mbappé,” said Debbie Wang, who admits she doesn’t follow the sport. “I am extremely curious about how many cards Ma Ning will issue.”
Ma’s influence extends beyond the pitch, inspiring fans who may not have been deeply engaged with the game before.