Can a Referee Red Card a Player After the Game?
Generally, a referee cannot issue a red card after the game has concluded. However, there are specific circumstances where post-match reviews can lead to disciplinary actions. This article explores these scenarios and discusses the likelihood and processes involved.
General Rules and Exceptions
Referees have strict authority during a game to ensure fair play and maintain the order of the field. Red cards and disciplinary actions are typically issued during the match, and removing players post-game is not within their immediate authority. However, the authority to impose penalties extends beyond the end of the match.
Video Review
Video technology can be pivotal in identifying missed incidents during a match. If an incident is captured on tape, the league or governing body may review it and decide to impose sanctions. This post-match review can result in red cards or other penalties.
Disciplinary Committees
Some leagues have dedicated disciplinary committees. These committees review player behavior and can issue penalties based on reports from referees or match officials. For example, a coach or team official might report an incident post-game, and the committee can decide on appropriate sanctions.
Practical Examples and Case Studies
Let's explore a real-life example of how a referee exercised their post-match authority after a particularly violent incident.
Case Study: A Competitive Game
During a competitive 15-16 year old game several years ago, a player literally picked up an opposing player and slammed them to the ground. The referee saw this and quickly called for a red card. The player, who got up, made motions as if to continue the attack, and teammates tried to restrain him. The coach also approached the scene.
At this moment, the player punched the other player. The referee immediately called the game and removed the aggressor. The team was not pleased, but the presence of a recent reference to a referee killed in a similar assault made the referee wary of an escalation.
The referee had immediate medical attention for a player who appeared concussed and called the police due to the apparent battery. When officers arrived, multiple card violations were reported, and the referee found it challenging to continue the game, let alone report the violations.
Post-Match Actions
After the game, the referee received a call from the league commissioner. The referee explained the situation, and the commissioner was left to decide on further action. Ultimately, one team member was arrested for battery and the team was removed from the league with several players banned from playing. The coach, too, was banned from coaching.
Conclusion
While referees cannot issue a red card post-match, the potential for post-match disciplinary actions means that every incident is subject to scrutiny long after the game ends. The use of video technology and dedicated disciplinary committees provides a framework for ensuring fair play and accountability in sports.