Romania first to use black cards to protect young players
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Romania’s Football Federation (FRF) will begin using black cards in youth soccer games, from the U7 to U16 levels, to address inappropriate behavior by parents and spectators.
The FRF approved the new rule on September 11 as a way to reduce pressure on young athletes and create a healthier environment for development. Referees will not issue black cards to players or coaches, but will use them to signal the permanent end of a match due to misconduct in the stands.
Before issuing a black card, referees will follow a three-step process. First, they will pause the game and ask team coaches to remind their supporters to behave. If a loudspeaker system is available, organizers will make a public announcement. If the behavior continues, the referee will suspend the match for ten minutes and send the teams to the locker room, giving coaches time to calm the situation.
Only if the abusive behavior persists after play resumes will the referee end the match and display the black card. The FRF views the black card as a final warning. They emphasize that if earlier interventions fail to stop abusive behavior, the game will not continue. The rule applies to a wide range of misconduct, including verbal abuse, violence, and harassment directed toward players, coaches, referees, or other spectators.
This initiative builds on earlier FRF efforts to improve youth soccer, including revising disciplinary codes in 2024 and launching the B.R.A.V.O. program in 2025, which promotes positive values in youth sports.
