Louis Baert

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Louis Andre Baert (born December 29, 1903 in Ghent – died July 11, 1969 in Ghent) was an international referee from Belgium in between the Wars.

Baert first came to international prominence in the 1934 World Cup. During this tournament he was selected as the referee for the quarter-final match between Italy and Spain. Records indicate that Italy were robust in their play during the game, and that as a result Ricardo Zamora, the Spanish goalkeeper, was constantly fouled, injured and took no part in the replay that was held a day later. [1] That game, controversially refereed by Rene Mercet lead to accusations being made that the referees were under the influence of the Italian organisers.

Baert appeared to be at fault in not penalising the Italians for this tactic. However, he did, thereafter, go on to be selected to run the line, to Ivan Eklind in both the semi-final and the final (both matches in which Italy played) and also have a lengthy international career as a referee. Baert was also the referee for the match during the 1938 World Cup in which Italy playing in their infamous maglia nera strip beat France in Paris. In total he featured in six World Cup matches.

He first refereed internationals in May 9, 1929 and ended on June 29, 1952. After retiring from active football he became a member of the Executive Panel of the Belgian Football Association until his death.

• Appreciation to Guido de Windt, Belgian FA, for his assistance in creating this entry.