The Consequences of Ripping Up a Red Card in Soccer

In soccer, a red card is a serious consequence for a player, signifying that they have been sent off the field due to a serious foul or misconduct. However, there are different reactions to this situation that can lead to additional consequences.

Immediate Consequences of a Red Card

When a player receives a red card, the referee will instruct the player to leave the field immediately. The decision is final, and players must comply with the rules. Desecrating the card by ripping it up is viewed as a sign of disrespect and un-sportsmanlike behavior. This action may result in further penalties from the referee, such as an additional ban or suspension from future matches.

Referees' Actions and Procedures

Most reputable referees keep a spare set of cards to ensure fairness and proper enforcement of rules. If a player were to rip up a red card, the referee would immediately pull out the second card and present it. The player would be officially sent off, and the referee would begin the process of reporting the incident.

The second part of the report would detail the player's actions after being sent off, which can lead to further disciplinary measures. Given that in the US, destroying a referee's equipment is often considered referee assault, the player could face a minimum of a one-year ban. This level of theatrics is not common and could be seen as an attempt to provoke additional action from the referee.

League and Association Decisions

The ultimate decision on disciplinary action lies with the league or association heads. For example, in La Liga, if such an incident were to occur, it would be up to La Liga's administration to decide on the punishment, which often involves a series of game bans.

A notable incident involving in an MLS game also serves as a case study. During a match, he was sent off with two yellows and immediately ripped up the referee's book. MLS did consider this action as an attempt at referee assault and imposed only a three-game suspension on him. This leniency likely reflects the league's understanding that tearing up the card is a gesture of defiance rather than a true act of violence, but it still carries significant repercussions.

Ultimately, the act of ripping up a red card in soccer carries severe consequences, ranging from immediate ejection to further penalties, including bans and suspensions. It is in the best interest of players to abide by the rules and the referee's decisions to maintain a fair and respectful environment on the field.