FIFA responds to IFAB, denies error benefiting Argentina against Switzerland

FIFA has responded to a recent circular from the International Football Association Board (IFAB) regarding mistaken identity in yellow card situations during the World Cup. The global football governing body asserted that its application of mistaken identity rules was consistent throughout the tournament and denied any errors by referees or the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).

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FIFA's interpretation of mistaken identity was applied consistently during the World Cup. There were two cases where a player was wrongly identified as the perpetrator of an offense punishable by a yellow card, and the VAR advised the referee to correct the factual error caused by the opponent's simulation.

A FIFA spokesperson clarified that in two instances during the World Cup, a player was incorrectly identified as the perpetrator of an offense punishable by a yellow card. In both cases, the VAR advised the referee to correct the factual error, which FIFA stated was caused by simulation from an opponent. FIFA maintained that simulation itself should not be subject to disciplinary action that could lead to further sanctions for the opposing team.

FIFA emphasized that these interventions were not considered refereeing or VAR errors but rather actions that restored justice to the game. The organization noted that it has been in constant contact with IFAB and confirmed that this interpretation is valid. IFAB acknowledged that the approach would be part of discussions regarding potential revisions to the VAR Protocol, as previously addressed at the Annual General Meeting.

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Simulation itself cannot be questioned and should not lead to disciplinary action against an opponent that could carry other consequences, such as an expulsion for a second yellow card or a suspension for accumulating bookings.

IFAB's circular (34) explained that VAR can intervene in cases of mistaken identity for a yellow card, but not to review the infraction itself. The circular specified that a yellow card, unless it constitutes a second caution, can only be reviewed to identify the correct player who committed the offense; the nature of the offense cannot be reviewed or altered.

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We do not consider this to have been a refereeing or VAR error, and the decision restored justice. We take note of IFAB's comments in their circular, we have been in contact with them at all times, and they have confirmed to us that this interpretation is valid.

Another IFAB circular (32) outlined incidents eligible for VAR review, including second yellow cards shown incorrectly and mistaken identity for yellow or red cards when the offense was committed by another player. One notable World Cup case involved Argentina's quarter-final match against Switzerland, where Swiss player Breel Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation after an incident with Leandro Paredes. The referee initially cautioned Paredes but, following VAR intervention, rescinded the card and instead sanctioned Embolo.

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A yellow card (caution) that does not constitute a second yellow card may only be reviewed for the identification of the player who committed the offence; the offence itself cannot be reviewed or amended.