The Chinese referee, 47, is understood to have left the competition before the semifinals, alongside assistant referee Zhou Fei. Their omission reportedly ended China’s involvement in the officiating team, following the earlier departure of video referee Fu Ming.
For Ma Ning, however, the message was less about disappointment than perspective. He described reaching the World Cup as the product of two decades of work, rejecting the idea that his age represented a barrier.
“Many people say it is too late, but I always believe that, as long as there is faith, we can turn the impossible into possible,” he said.
That message reflects the demanding route taken by referees, whose careers are built on consistency, fitness and the ability to withstand scrutiny. Unlike players, officials rarely receive sustained attention unless controversy follows them. Ma Ning’s farewell attempted to reclaim the wider human story behind the decisions.
Ma Ning also addressed the changing response from supporters in China. He recalled being mocked for his style on the pitch before sensing greater appreciation for the work involved in officiating.
“From provoking me as the ‘master of cards’ to recognising my refereeing standards, it was your rationality and tolerance that showed me the most lovable side of Chinese football,” he said.
He thanked his family, describing their support as crucial to remaining “resolute and fearless” throughout his pursuit of the game’s biggest stages.
The immediate World Cup chapter appears to be over for Ma Ning and Zhou Fei, but their presence at the tournament remains significant for Chinese refereeing. The next challenge will be ensuring that experience strengthens the officials who follow them.
For Ma Ning, the farewell may mark the end of one assignment, but his influence on China’s next generation of referees is likely to become the story that follows.