Referee cards

Referee cards in Shop SportanoThe referee cards, also known as disciplinary cards, were introduced to football during the 1970 World Cup in Mexico. The need for their introduction arose from the need for clear and understandable communication for all when a referee decides to penalise a player. Before their introduction, there were often misunderstandings, especially when the language barrier was an issue. The cards brought clarity and uniformity to this issue, regardless of country or language.The use of cards: when and why are they shown? Referee cards are an integral part of the disciplinary system in football and serve as a communication tool between the referee and players, coaches and spectators. Although to many they are merely symbolic cards, in reality they play a key role in maintaining order and fairness on the pitch. A yellow card is shown as a warning to a player for a variety of offences. These can include less serious fouls, unsportsmanlike conduct, delaying the resumption of play, as well as demonstrative protests against referee decisions. If a player receives two yellow cards in one match, they automatically turn into a red card, resulting in exclusion from the game. A red card, on the other hand, is a sign of a more serious offence. It can be shown for a violent foul, hitting, kicking or spitting at an opponent, using offensive language or gestures, or for deliberately inhibiting a goal-scoring opportunity through a foul (for example, knocking over a player who would have been one-on-one with the goalkeeper). Receipt of a red card results in the player's immediate removal from the field of play and his team must continue playing in a weakened position. Every card shown has consequences, not only during the match but also after the match. Players who have received a yellow or red card may be punished by suspension for the following matches and, for more serious offences, also by fines or longer suspensions. Showing referee cards is therefore not just a formality, but a key element of match management. They enable the referee to control the game, discipline on the pitch and are a means of preventing unsporting behaviour from escalating. In the technological era we live in, although VAR (video assistant referee) technology or goal-line systems have become standard, simple referee cards still remain one of the most recognisable symbols of discipline in football.Colourful meaning: the differences between yellow and red cardThe referee's cards in football act as a clear communication regarding the referee's decision, with their colour reflecting the severity of the player's offence on the pitch. The yellow card, commonly understood as a warning, is a relatively milder tool of referee intervention. It can be shown for a variety of offences: from less serious fouls, to unsportsmanlike conduct (e.g. simulation), to protesting against the referee's decisions. Often it is a form of warning to the player, a signal that further similar behaviour may lead to more serious consequences. If two yellow cards are received in one match, the player automatically receives a red card and is excluded from the game. A red card is a harsher tool in the referee's arsenal, used in situations where the offence is considered serious. Such offences may include violent fouls, aggression towards other players, punching, kicking, spitting or the use of offensive language or gestures. A red card results in a player's immediate exclusion from the pitch and his team must continue the match in a weakened position, which can have a significant impact on the game.Materials and durability: what are they made of? referee cards are made of? Referee cards need to be tough and durable to withstand the challenges of a dynamic environment such as a football pitch. Most of them are made of highly durable plastics that are resistant to external elements such as rain, mud or sweat. In addition, their surface is usually matt to avoid glare when showing under the sun. While they may appear to be simple pieces, many have additional features such as a space for notes or a special case. Some modern versions of the cards may even include technology that allows referees to keep electronic notes on offences during the match. The durability of the material ensures that the cards are not only durable, but also resistant to creasing and damage. There are different brands and models of cards available on the market, but all are designed to provide the referee with a reliable tool that will last for many seasons. In an age of constant advances in technology in sport, classic referee cards still remain one of the most immutable and irreplaceable elements of the game.