Like most football referees, Jonas Eriksson is employed on a
full-time basis. But unlike his colleagues, he has the luxury that he
could do it all for nothing because he's a multi-millionaire.
40-year-old Eriksson was the man in charge of
Brazil's 4-1 win over Cameroon this morning and during the World Cup stands to make around $US40,000 to $US50,000 ($42,435 - $53,031) - for a month's work.
But luckily for Eriksson, he referees completely for the fun of it.
Eriksson was appointed to his first international major tournament in 2012 and is respected for the way he officiates games.
Seven years ago, Eriksson sold his 15 per cent stake in a
Swedish sports media rights business for a reported £6 million ($10.837
million)
It's a large enough sum of money to get by for the rest of
your life, but the former journalist pursued refereeing as a hobby,
something he took great enjoyment out of.
He's had a whistle in his back pocket since 1994, but during that
time he pursued a business career as one of three partners who owned the
company IEC in Sports.
For referees, their progression to the highest echelon of
decision making takes remarkable time and effort. For most though, it's
an inherent love of the round ball that drives them to success. Some
types would even go as far as saying it's the best job in the world;
being able to watch football from the best seat in the house.
For Eriksson, that's exactly how he describes his job, which takes him all over the world.
"I've had a fantastic life as a businessman...but since 2011,
I've dedicated myself to being a professional referee and I'm having
the time of my life," Eriksson told UEFA last year.
"All the money hasn't changed anything, the best thing I do in my life is still refereeing football."
However, Eriksson's refereeing career hasn't been spared of
controversy over the years. He angered Scotland manager Gordon Strachan
in 2009 when he didn't give a crucial penalty in a Rangers' Champions
League match against Sevilla, with Strachan saying the multi-millionaire
"shouldn't get another game in the Champions League...he is not good
enough".
Or the time he waved away Barcelona's cries for a string of
penalties in the box in a goalless draw with AC Milan. The stage - a
Champions League quarter-final in 2011-12.
Most referees do well to escape the criticism and constant
public scrutiny in their line of work. Like professional athletes,
referees only deal in one currency - strong performances on the field.
When these performances begin to taper away, just like a star
forward who can't seem to slot one in the back of the net, the pressure
of retaining your job begins to play on your mind.
One can't help but think that Eriksson's financial security
combined with an indubitable passion for the game will be pave the way
for long-term success on the world's biggest stage.
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