What does it mean to be a neutral referee?

Being a neutral referee means to have no affiliation with either team involved in the match. This impartiality is crucial because it ensures that the referee can make decisions based solely on the rules of the game and not be influenced by personal biases or connections to the teams or players.

When a referee is neutral, they contribute to a fair playing environment where both teams feel they have an equal chance of receiving unbiased calls. This aspect of neutrality helps maintain the integrity of the game, as all participants can trust that the officiating will not favor one side over the other.

Experience with one of the teams or having any relationship with the teams can lead to perceived or actual bias, undermining the fairness of the match. Additionally, favoring the home team would directly contradict the principles of unbiased officiating, as it would skew the competitive balance.