FIFA Considers VAR Protocol Change for Double Yellow Cards

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has announced it is considering potential changes to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) protocol concerning double yellow cards. These proposed changes are expected to be discussed during its upcoming meeting scheduled for February 28 in Wales.

This potential discussion follows a controversial incident where AC Milan's Pierre Kalulu received a second yellow card for what was deemed Alessandro Bastoni's simulation, a decision Gianluca Rocchi, head of the referees' committee, described as an error. Andrea Di Marco, institutional relations manager for Referees' Committees A and B, confirmed that discussions are underway to address various situations involving second yellow cards.

Andrea Di Marco stated: "At the upcoming IFAB meeting... I believe the possibility of changing the protocol to avoid punitive situations will be considered." He added: "Regarding the double yellow card, we have been discussing it for a long time... with the aim of addressing different cases of the second yellow card."

These proposed changes aim to prevent similar punitive situations in the future and avoid the recurrence of refereeing errors. The new protocol could potentially be implemented in the upcoming World Cup and subsequent tournaments, in an effort to enhance the fairness of the game.

In a related context, threats received by Alessandro Bastoni and referee La Penna following the controversial decision have been condemned, underscoring the importance of protecting referees and players from violent reactions. This condemnation aims to emphasize the spirit of fair play and mutual respect in football.