Question Number: 23626

League Specific 7/6/2010

RE: N/A Other

Peter Grove of Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire England asks...

This question is a follow up to question 23589

Unfortunately, Ref McHugh is incorrect on this one.

In previous World Cups, FIFA has had an amnesty on yellow cards after the group stages. However this time, they have shifted it, apparently with the specific intent of allowing any big-name player who picks up a second yellow card in the semi, to still play in the final.

The following story was carried on various news services, including Reuter's on June 19, 2010.

'For this year's tournament, world football's governing body has shifted its usual amnesty for yellow cards from the end of the first round until after the quarter-finals instead.

That means players would only miss the final if they receive two yellow cards - or of course a straight red - in a semi-final game, rather than in the past when they may have carried one yellow card going into a semi.

'FIFA simply said we want to give the best players a chance to play in the final,' spokesman Marius Schneider said. The discussion first came up when Ballack was ruled out [for the 2002 final].'

I happen to disagree with FIFA's stance here, I think it smacks of 'one law for the rich and another for the poor.' Apparently FIFA cares too much about what the fans think and don't want to see them disappointed by missing out on seeing their favourite players in the final. I beleive it sends the wrong message, implying that the big star-name players are above the law.

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

You are correct, the rules have changed this time around.

The counter to your argument though, is that by the time a team has reached the finals they have played twice as many games as a team that only played in the group stage. That player had more game chances to receive 2 yellow cards.

I do agree with your point that FIFA wants the world to see the star players. It's similar to the pressure some referees are put under for cards in league play - 'The fans won't come if the star is suspended.'

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Peter
A good point and it is well made. I was not aware of this change for the 2010 WC and I have amended the answer
I'm sure many who have missed out on a World Cup final in recent times such as Laurent Blanc of France or indeed players who were suspended in other major finals such as Keane, Ribery, Fletcher, Motta in the Champions League etc will be wondering about this change by the govering body.