In soccer, the yellow card is the universal signal for a formal warning. It’s one of the most recognized gestures in the sport — a referee reaching into their pocket and flashing the card as a sign that a player’s conduct has crossed the line.
But what actually causes a yellow card to be shown? When is it appropriate, and what does it mean for the player and the game?
Here’s everything you need to know about yellow cards in soccer.
A yellow card is a caution. It doesn’t remove the player from the game, but it does serve as an official warning from the referee. If the same player receives a second yellow card in the same match, it automatically results in a red card — and they are sent off.
Yellow cards are recorded and can lead to suspensions in tournaments or league play if a player accumulates too many over time.
According to the official Laws of the Game, a referee can issue a yellow card for any of the following offenses:
1. Unsporting Behavior
This is a broad category and one of the most common reasons for a yellow card. It includes actions like:
2. Dissent by Word or Action
If a player argues with or confronts the referee in a disrespectful or aggressive manner, it can result in a yellow card — even if the decision isn’t reversed.
3. Persistent Infringement
Even if each foul is minor, a player who repeatedly commits fouls over time may receive a yellow card for accumulating too many small offenses.
4. Delaying the Restart of Play
Taking too long to take a free kick, standing in front of the ball to block a quick restart, or wasting time when winning can all lead to cautions.
5. Failing to Respect Required Distance
Players are expected to stand a specific distance away (usually 10 yards or 9.15 meters) from free kicks and corner kicks. Encroaching on that distance can result in a yellow card.
6. Entering or Re-entering the Field Without Permission
If a player enters the pitch after a substitution, injury, or celebration without the referee’s approval, they can be cautioned.
7. Leaving the Field Without Permission
Players can also be cautioned for leaving the field deliberately without letting the referee know — particularly if it delays play or is done without a valid reason.
Once a player is shown a yellow card:
Yes — goalkeepers are just as eligible to receive yellow cards as outfield players. Common reasons include time-wasting, dissent, and fouls outside the penalty area. If a goalkeeper receives a second yellow, they are sent off, and a substitute (or an outfield player, if no subs remain) must take over in goal.
No. Yellow cards are not reviewable by VAR, except when there may be a case of mistaken identity or when the incident leads to a potential red card. For example, VAR might intervene if the referee mistakenly issues a yellow card when a red card is warranted, but not to review a basic caution on its own.
In many tournaments and leagues, receiving a certain number of yellow cards over multiple matches can lead to a suspension. For example, a player who collects two or three yellow cards in a tournament like the World Cup or Champions League may be suspended for the next match.
These rules vary depending on the competition and are usually reset or wiped after a certain stage (such as the semifinals).
The yellow card is a crucial part of soccer’s discipline system. It allows referees to manage the game without immediately removing players, and it encourages fair play while giving clear consequences for repeated or unsporting behavior.
Understanding why yellow cards are given helps fans follow the flow of the game and appreciate the judgment referees use to keep the match under control.
