You Make The Call – Episode 28 Rescinding a red card?

You Make the Call (YMTC) – Rescinding a Red Card

This YMTC episode examines the rare but crucial situation where a referee needs to rescind a red card, how to handle it professionally, and the impact on game control, credibility, and crew communication​ YMTC37.

Situation: Issuing & Then Rescinding a Red Card

Game Context:

• 18U Boys Match
• A player aggressively charged the goalkeeper, made contact, and the goalkeeper flew to the ground.
• The CR, positioned directly behind the challenge, immediately issued a red card to the attacking player.
• AR, who had a perpendicular view, signaled that the goalkeeper had embellished the contact.
• After discussion with the AR, the red card was rescinded, and instead, the goalkeeper received a yellow card for simulation.

Key Question:
“How should referees properly rescind a red card while maintaining credibility and control?”

1. The Process of Taking Back a Red Card

Official LOTG Stance:

• There is NO formalized signal for rescinding a red card.
• Before play restarts, referees can change their decision based on crew input or their own realization of a mistake.
• Once play restarts, the decision is final.

Best Practices for Handling the Situation:

1. Stop Play & Pause the Process
   • Hold the game for a moment to discuss with ARs or fourth official.
   • Be calm and methodical, ensuring the situation is handled correctly.
2. Use a Clear & Professional Signal to Rescind the Card
   • Options used in practice:
     • Crossing arms in an “X” and returning the card to pocket.
     • Holding the red card up, then lowering it back into the pocket.
     • Verbally addressing the player and teams:
       • “After consulting my AR, I am rescinding the red card and issuing a yellow card instead.”
3. Communicate the Decision Firmly & Clearly
   • Explain the correction in a strong but composed voice to players and benches.
   • Avoid over-explaining, which can make referees appear unsure.
   • Example:
     • “I had a poor angle, and after speaking with my AR, I’ve determined this was not a red card offense. The goalkeeper receives a yellow for embellishment.”
4. Restart Play Correctly
   • Ensure all players are reset and blow the whistle firmly to restart play.

2. The Role of Crew Communication in Preventing Mistakes

• Referees must trust their ARs, especially for incidents where their view is obstructed.
• Using comms (if available) can prevent premature carding.
• Having a structured pre-game discussion about penalty-area decisions can reduce incorrect send-offs.

3. Does Rescinding a Red Card Hurt Referee Credibility?

• NO—if done correctly. Players and coaches respect referees who prioritize getting the decision right.
• YES—if done hesitantly or without proper explanation. Indecisiveness can lead to further challenges to referee authority.
• KEY TAKEAWAY:
  • A calm, confident correction strengthens credibility.
  • Ignoring an AR’s input to “save face” can be more damaging than fixing a mistake.

Final Takeaways: Handling a Rescinded Red Card

1. Stop Play & Confirm the Decision Before Rescinding.
2. Use a Clear & Professional Signal to Communicate the Change.
3. Explain the Rationale Simply & Confidently.
4. Restart Play Correctly to Move On from the Situation.
5. Trust Your Crew—They Can Help You Avoid Critical Mistakes.

This episode highlights how even experienced referees make mistakes, but handling them correctly maintains game control and respect.

Search

Last Updated on March 12, 2025 by Frank