Tuchel's 'Grade E' referee Turpin appointed to take charge of England vs Norway

Clément Turpin, the French referee Thomas Tuchel famously labelled “Grade E”, has been appointed to officiate England’s World Cup knockout clash against Norway, having already taken charge of the Three Lions’ 4-2 group-stage victory over Croatia.

Turpin’s path has crossed with England manager Tuchel before, and not without controversy. In April 2023, Tuchel — then in charge of Bayern Munich — erupted after Turpin produced a card-heavy performance in the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Manchester City at the Allianz Arena. Turpin issued five yellow cards in the first half alone and initially showed Dayot Upamecano a straight red for a challenge on Erling Haaland, though VAR overturned the decision after ruling Haaland offside.

Tuchel did not hold back in his post-match assessment. “Two things couldn’t keep up with the level — the pitch wasn’t in good condition and also the referee, unfortunately, was Grade E,” he said. “I’d give him a one out of 10. He was absolutely terrible. It’s unbelievable at this level. He was whistling for everything and anything. Everything was against us.”

Despite that flashpoint, Turpin is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most accomplished officials. His major assignments include the 2021 Europa League final and the 2022 Champions League final, and he was also in charge of England’s goalless draw with Slovenia at Euro 2024.

Turpin has prior experience with England’s Jude Bellingham too. The official intervened decisively when the Real Madrid midfielder attempted to unsettle Harry Kane around the penalty spot in a Champions League fixture, demonstrating the firm man-management that has defined his reputation at the top level.

At this World Cup, Turpin has also refereed Paraguay’s draw with Australia and Colombia’s win over Ghana in the round of 32, giving him three assignments at the tournament before stepping up to take charge of the England vs Norway tie.