FIFA has clarified recent speculations about the potential introduction of the 'blue card' at elite football levels, asserting that such reports are premature and inaccurate. In an official statement, the Federation of International Football Association emphasized the need for any trials related to the blue card concept to commence at lower levels first, with careful consideration and responsibility.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB), the governing body responsible for determining the Laws of the Game in football, is reportedly contemplating the implementation of blue cards as part of sin-bin trials. These blue cards would involve a ten-minute timeout for players involved in cynical fouls or displaying dissent towards match officials.
FIFA emphasized that if trials are to be implemented, they should be limited to testing in a responsible manner at lower levels. Detailed protocols for the blue card trials are expected to be released soon, with a primary focus on addressing misconduct towards match officials.
While the trials are scheduled to be tested during the upcoming men’s and women’s FA Cups, it has been clarified that the blue card system will not be featured in the English Premier League's 2024/25 season, as reported by the Athletic.