Alejandro took up refereeing because it was in his blood, stayed with it out of passion and crowned his career with a World Cup. Behind the referee is a devoted family man, warm and approachable, proud of his roots and happiest at the cinema or over leisurely meals with family and friends.
What was it like to referee at a World Cup?
Without doubt, it was the most wonderful professional experience of my life. I felt a sense of personal satisfaction like nothing else. Before my first match, I thought of everyone who had stood by me through the difficult times. It was also a genuine privilege to spend 45 days alongside the finest referees on the planet. Taking part in a tournament that until recently had seemed an impossible dream was the crowning moment of my 32-year professional career.
While other children dreamed of becoming football stars, you wanted to be a referee. Why?
I grew up around refereeing, as both my father and uncle were referees. That led me to try it for myself. I had doubts at first, but from my first matches I realised how much I enjoyed it and wanted to carry on. What began as a hobby became a genuine passion and, ultimately, my profession.
Did being the odd one out in the playground ever cause you problems?
At break time, I played football like everyone else. Being a referee didn’t make me feel like the odd one out. My childhood and teenage years were perfectly normal, just like those of any other boy my age. The only difference was that at weekends I took to the pitch not to play, but to referee. Officiating matches involving young players from every town and village on the island also allowed me to meet a huge number of people. My circle grew exponentially.
Who is Alejandro Hernández Hernández when he is not carrying a whistle and cards?
The proud father of two wonderful daughters whom we try to raise and care for as well as we can. We give them all our love and do everything we can to be there for them, even though my work often takes me away.
Away from football, how do you unwind?
At home, we’re all big film fans. I particularly love the ritual of going to the cinema and watching a film properly, popcorn included. It is now a family tradition. Lunch or dinner with friends or family is always welcome too, particularly when we can linger around the table afterwards. Those are the moments I value and enjoy most.
Is Lanzarote still a part of who you are?
One of the things I am proudest of is where I come from. Lanzarote is a wonderful island in every respect, and I sing its praises wherever I go. I was born there and have spent most of my life there. In fact, I still feel like the boy who used to walk around Arrecife. I now live on the Spanish mainland for professional reasons, but I come back as often as I can to enjoy the island with my family. I believe there is no better place in the world to live, and the more places I see, the more convinced of that I become.
And what does the future hold?
More football refereeing. I still have plenty left in me. I am certain that when I hang up my boots, I will remain involved in refereeing. It will be rewarding to help the next generation by sharing the knowledge and professional experience I have accumulated. Refereeing has given me so much, both personally and professionally, and I feel I should give something back by helping to train and support the referees of the future.
