FIFA set to unveil new directives
October 14th, 2004 by admin
Governing body believe referee’s decision is final
FIFA are to insist that referees can only rescind their decisions in a case of mistaken identity.
Thes new directives clash with the FA’s new disciplinary code, which allows match officials to review their decision within 48 hours of a match. This has already seen a number of cards rescinded with the most high-profile being Didier Drogba (Chelsea) and Ricardo Fuller (Portsmouth) who were originally booked for diving.
FIFA’s communications director Markus Siegler explains:
“We know the FA have revised their disciplinary regulations but it is clear in the laws of the game that a referee cannot take back a decision once he has restarted the game. The decisions of the referee regarding facts connected with play are final. The referee may only change a decision on realising that it is incorrect or, at his discretion, on the advice of an assistant referee, provided he has not restarted play.”
The FA’s stance is the belief that video evidence should be used to reach a correct decision.
This has drawn a strong response from FIFA president Sepp Blatter:
“A referee’s decision has no space for speculation. If people start casting doubt on the referee, they start casting doubt on football.”
……………M A TC H…..R E P O R T S………….
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We welcome your views and descriptions of matches. On the spot and even conflicting views of what has happened offer a fuller historical picture than any single ‘official’ version ever can. By adding your comments and reviews, you are contributing to the history of the game.
Although we appreciate a bias in favour of your club, without exception, foul or abusive language will not be tolerated. This is very much a family website - indeed we are keen to encourage younger club statisticians to get involved. Infact, it is an excellent training ground for the budding sports reporter.
Of course, please ensure factual statements are correct at all times.
For acceptable examples, go to League Division 3 games in the early weeks of the 2000-01 season or the 2006 FA Cup Final via our Members Area. Please feel free to add to them or any other matches on the database. Thank you.