02/12/2025
Whether a player agrees with a decision or not, the ‘spirit’ of the game requires that every player respects the referee, other match officials, and the opponents.
Clapping in reaction to a decision is visible to other participants and spectators, and it may negatively impact the overall atmosphere on the field of play and the image of the game, and shows a lack of respect.
When should the referee take disciplinary action for such behaviour?
PROTESTING AGAINST THE DECISION
An initial, instinctive, non-exaggerated expression of disagreement, objection or complaint is usually accepted by the referee as a natural reaction.
Clapping against a decision sarcastically is usually a clear example of ‘dissent by action’, but in some circumstances it may be ‘unsporting behaviour’ – in both cases it is punished with a caution (yellow card, YC).
SUPPORT FOR THE DECISION
If a player claps to show that they agree with the match official’s decision, the referee should consider the specific circumstances before deciding whether a sanction is needed.
Example 1
A defender commits a foul that interferes with a promising attack, so the referee stops play and cautions the defender. The fouled player gets up and claps, as they expected this decision.
Decision: usually no card for the clapping player (if their initial reaction is meant to applaud the decision, and not directed at the opponent) but if it is sarcastic then a caution (YC) would result.
Example 2
After several offences by Team A that have been missed or not punished, the referee takes disciplinary action and a Team B player claps the referee.
Decision: a YC can be justified if the Team B player claps sarcastically to indicate that the referee has ‘finally’ noticed the offence or taken the appropriate action.
Example 3
After the referee awards a free kick against Team A, a Team B player claps in front of (or in the direction of) the opponent to taunt them or provoke the opposing team.
Decision: a YC may be issued for ‘unsporting behaviour – showing a lack of respect for the game’.
