Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-09 07:48:18
FIFA has made a statement addressing the recent reports regarding the trial of the ‘blue card’ at the elite levels of football. The organization clarified that the reports are inaccurate and premature, and any such trials, if conducted, should be limited to lower levels of the sport. This position will be reiterated at the Annual General Meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB) on March 2, 2024.
IFAB is responsible for determining the Laws of the Game of association football and agrees on standardised laws for international competitions. It is reported that IFAB is considering the introduction of a blue card as part of sin-bin trials. Under this proposed system, players would receive ten-minute timeouts for cynical fouls or dissent towards match officials. The detailed protocols for the blue card trial are expected to be published soon as part of an effort to address abuse towards match officials and cynical fouls.
The blue cards are intended to provide greater protection to referees and could be tested by the Football Association (FA) in upcoming men’s and women’s FA Cup matches. However, it has been reported that the English Premier League will not implement the blue card system during the 2024/25 season.
It is important to note that FIFA’s clarification emphasizes the need for responsible testing of the blue card system at lower levels before any potential implementation at the elite level. The organization’s stance on this issue will be further discussed at the IFAB’s Annual General Meeting, where decisions regarding the development and implementation of new rules and regulations in football are made.
The potential introduction of the blue card system is part of a broader effort to promote fair play and respect for match officials in football. By implementing sin-bin trials and introducing additional disciplinary measures, the sport aims to create a safer and more respectful environment for all participants. As the details of the blue card trial continue to be discussed and finalized, it is clear that the overarching goal is to uphold the integrity and sportsmanship of football at all levels.
