FIFA introduces two-minute dismissals to crack down on simulation
Football is about to experience a major shake-up as a new rule targeting time-wasting and simulation is set to be introduced. The announcement came from Pierluigi Collina, head of the referees committee at FIFA.
According to the legendary former referee, the new disciplinary regulation will come into effect as early as the beginning of December, focusing on players who deliberately stop play without genuine cause. If a footballer requests medical attention but examination reveals no real injury, the referee will be required to send the player off the pitch for two minutes. The countdown starts once the match resumes.
There are two exceptions. A player may remain on the pitch if an opponent receives a card—yellow or red—for the foul that led to the medical request. The second exception applies to goalkeepers: this rule will not affect them, as play cannot continue without a shot-stopper on the field.
It's worth noting that the first tests of the new regulation will take place from December 1 to 18 during the Arab Nations Cup in Qatar.
Jan Novak
Dailysports's expert
