Football fans can breathe a sigh of relief as the proposed introduction of blue cards looks set to be scrapped. The idea of a third card to penalize dissent and cynical “anti-football action” fouls caused a global uproar when it was revealed last month. However, sin bins will still be on the table and will be trialled in upcoming matches.
Sin Bins for Dissent
At the annual general meeting of the International FA Board (Ifab), it is expected that sin bins will be approved for dissent. This trial will likely begin at the semi-professional level. The intention behind sin bins is to tackle the issue of players arguing with referees and showboating, which often disrupts the flow of the game.
Controversial Fouls Up for Debate
The proposal for sin bins to also be used for deliberate cynical fouls, as highlighted by Giorgio Chiellini’s actions against Bukayo Saka in the Euro 2020 Final, is still up for debate. This issue will be the subject of much discussion at the meeting, which includes representatives from FIFA, the Home Nations, and notable figures like Arsene Wenger and Gianni Infantino.
Clamp Down on Dissent
Alternatively, referees could be mandated to crack down on dissent by cautioning any player who abuses them, removing the discretion currently afforded to referees. This approach, championed by FIFA refs’ chief Pierluigi Collina, aims to create a stricter environment on the field.
VAR Expansion Less Likely
While there is a push to extend the scope of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system to include corners, free-kicks, and second yellow cards, this proposal is expected to face resistance. Some Ifab members fear that VAR is already causing enough controversy and don’t want to add further complications that might cause a backlash.
Time-Wasting by Goalkeepers
There has been a revision of the idea to punish goalkeepers who waste time by holding onto the ball for longer than the allowed six seconds. Instead of awarding a corner, the opposing team will now be given a throw-in level with the edge of the box. Referees are expected to take a stricter approach to time-wasting, potentially extending the permitted time for goalkeepers to hold the ball to 10 seconds.
Future Law Changes
Ifab will also endorse two planned Law changes for the next season. Defensive players committing deliberate handball offenses in their own box will face dismissal, and the ball must overhang the center spot for penalty kicks.
Stay tuned for further updates on these rule changes as they develop.
Images courtesy of AFP and AP.
