Question Number: 28221

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 2/28/2014

RE: N/A Other

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

This question is a follow up to question 28173

Although it is a somewhat technical distinction, I think it's interesting to note that in England, the FA does not actually rescind red cards. If a case for wrongful dismissal is upheld, what happens is that the suspension is withdrawn and the card no longer counts against the player's cumulative card count. Officially, the red card still stands although, since it has no further effect, it might as well have been rescinded.

For instance, in the Danny Rose case mentioned by Ref McHugh, the FA website states:

'Danny Roses one-match suspension has been withdrawn with immediate effect, after the Tottenham Hotspur players wrongful dismissal claim was upheld by an Independent Regulatory Commission.'

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Peter
Many thanks for your insight here. I suspect that there are historical reasons for this plus as the player was dismissed from the field of play, for however long, that was still a sanction administered by the referee. So yes technically the card is not rescinded as it would invalidate the referee's decision to remove the player. It is probably for the same reason that cautions cannot be appealed.

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

For referees, what happens after the math is over is an issue for the league officials. But, FIFA has been clear that there should be a minimum one match suspension for any red card. Professional leagues, such as the FA, provide more discretion to their disciplinary panel.