A red card in soccer is one of the most significant actions a referee can take. It not only affects the match in the moment but also has lasting consequences for the player and team. But what actually leads to a red card, and how do referees determine when it should be shown?
Here’s a full breakdown of the red card rules, updated for 2025, with everything fans, players, and coaches need to know.
When a referee shows a red card, the player is immediately sent off and cannot be replaced. Their team must play the remainder of the match with one fewer player. This applies whether the red card is shown for a single serious offense or as the result of receiving two yellow cards in the same match.
In most cases, the player will also face a suspension for at least one additional game, depending on the nature of the offense.
According to the IFAB Laws of the Game, there are seven specific offenses that warrant a red card:
1. Serious Foul Play
This usually involves a dangerous tackle or reckless challenge that endangers the safety of another player. Sliding in with studs up, lunging with excessive force, or making contact well after the ball is gone can all fall under this category.
2. Violent Conduct
This applies when a player uses physical aggression against another person — on or off the ball. Punching, elbowing, kicking, or fighting are common examples. The violence doesn’t have to be successful or during active play to result in a red card.
3. Spitting at Another Person
Spitting at an opponent, teammate, referee, or even a fan is considered a red card offense — no exceptions.
4. Denying an Obvious Goal-Scoring Opportunity (DOGSO)
If a player fouls an opponent to prevent a clear goal-scoring chance — either by holding, tripping, or handling the ball — they can be shown a red card. This includes defenders stopping attackers who are through on goal and goalkeepers committing fouls outside the penalty area.
5. Using Offensive, Insulting, or Abusive Language or Gestures
Any form of verbal or physical abuse directed toward officials, players, coaches, or fans can lead to an immediate red card. This includes discriminatory language, gestures, or excessively aggressive arguments.
6. Receiving a Second Yellow Card
When a player receives two yellow cards in the same match, they are automatically shown a red card and sent off. The second yellow doesn’t need to be a serious offense — it could be something as simple as time-wasting or a minor foul.
7. Entering or Re-entering the Field Without Permission
In rare cases, a player can receive a red card for entering the field without authorization, especially if it disrupts play or is done in a confrontational manner.
Once a red card is shown, the player must leave the field immediately. Their team must play short-handed for the remainder of the game. In most leagues and tournaments, the player will also receive at least a one-match suspension. More severe offenses — like violent conduct or abusive language — can result in longer bans.
A special consideration applies when DOGSO occurs inside the penalty area. If the defender makes a genuine attempt to play the ball and commits a foul, the referee may issue only a yellow card. However, if the defender pulls a shirt, grabs an arm, or deliberately handles the ball, the red card still applies.
This is designed to avoid punishing teams twice (penalty kick plus red card) when the foul was not malicious.
Yes. Goalkeepers are subject to the same rules as any other player. A keeper can be sent off for DOGSO outside the box, serious foul play, violent conduct, or any of the other six reasons listed above. If no substitutions are left, a field player must take over in goal.
In competitions that use VAR, red card incidents can be reviewed. VAR can recommend a review if the referee missed the offense, or if a red card was shown in error. However, second yellow cards are not reviewable by VAR — only straight red card offenses are eligible.
Referees can also show red cards to substitutes and team staff. If a substitute or coach is sent off, they must leave the field area and are typically subject to disciplinary review. While the team doesn't go down a player in this case, their removal can still impact match management and team dynamics.
Red cards are among the most impactful decisions in soccer. Understanding when and why they are issued helps fans appreciate the balance referees must strike between keeping the game fair and maintaining control. While some calls may be debated, the rules behind them are clearly defined and consistent across the professional game.
