Question Number: 15157

Law 4 - Players Equipment 4/10/2007

RE: rec Other

Rob of Pittsburgh, PA USA asks...

The FIFA law #4 concerning the players equiptment, from what i can see does not state that a shirt must be tucked in. I can't see how this can be dangerous to anyone. An arguement that it is easier for a referee to see a jersey being pulled does not seem to hold water in my opinion either. Since it does not appear to be a in law #4 (I may be wrong), why do I hear so many refs tell me that it is a FIFA rule? I wonder if they just tell kids this because they too have heard it from somewhere.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

It IS easier to see a jersey pulled from the tucked in position. While not covered in LOTG, it IS covered in Advice To Referees On The Laws Of The Game published yearly by the USSF our governing body. All US referees are required to adhere to what's in Advice and in section 4.1 it clearly states that shirts MUST be tucked in.

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

I look at holding a jersey this way, if tucked in it is very hard to get hold of accidentally. If flying in the breeze one may become entangled and this may be construed as holding whilst, in fact, it isn't.

When this is explained to players they seem reluctant to have their shirt out. If an attacker wishes to wear his jersey outside his shorts and misses a shot I tell him I know why he missed. I have never been left hanging, they always ask why... Shirts out, you're off balance. In it goes, problem solved. Later if they score a goal and the shirt is in -- "I told you, didn't I?" If they miss, the shirt is still out...

Of course the referee can bring a copy of Advice to Referees and show them Paragraph 4.1 WEARING UNIFORMS
It is implicit in the Law that each side wear a distinctively colored jersey, that shorts and socks be uniform for each team, and that the uniforms be distinguishable from the uniforms worn by the other
team. However, the details of the uniform are governed by the competition authority and can vary widely from one match to another. The referee must know and enforce the rules of each competition worked. Players' jerseys must remain tucked inside their shorts, socks must remain pulled up, and each player must wear shinguards under the socks. Slide pants or similar undergarments must be as close as possible to the main color of the shorts. [Note: this has become true for something worn under the jersey as well]

Regards,