Markus Merk

Markus Merk is a dentist, development worker, and former FIFA referee. He began his refereeing career at the age of twelve; by the age of 18, he was already officiating in the association league. Markus Merk has been voted Referee of the Year several times, and in 2004, 2005, and 2007, he was also named Best Referee in the World, and in 2010, he was named World Referee of the First Decade of the 21st Century. Since the 2010/2011 season, Markus Merk has regularly commentated live from Istanbul for Turkey's largest football broadcaster, LigTV. Since the 2011/2012 season, Markus Merk has also commentated on top matches for Sky. Outside of his professional life, Markus Merk cares for the needs of the poorest people in southern India. Since 1991, he has established various development projects, including orphanages and schools for almost 400 children, as well as a retirement home. Markus Merk is also an ambassador for the "Protect Children in War" campaign of the International Red Cross and UEFA. Markus Merk is one of the most sought-after speakers in the German-speaking world. With his charisma, integrity, and message, he captivates his audience from the first minute to the last.