SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/soc-card-colors

In soccer, what does a red card mean?

The player is sent off. A yellow card is a caution.

Start playing free

  1. A warning, the player stays on
  2. A 10-minute penalty
  3. The player is sent off ✔

Why: The yellow card communicates a caution and the red card communicates a sending-off. A sent-off player must leave the field and the technical area.

Huh, didn't know that: Only players, substitutes, substituted players and team officials can be shown cards.

The dad joke
Why did the referee carry two cards? He liked a colorful conversation.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: The player is sent off. The yellow card communicates a caution and the red card communicates a sending-off. A sent-off player must leave the field and the technical area.

  1. IFAB Laws of the Game 2026/27, Law 12 Fouls and Misconduct www.theifab.com/laws/latest/fouls-and-misconduct
    The yellow card communicates a caution and the red card communicates a sending-off.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Sports & FitnessWhat happens to a player who gets a second yellow card in the same match?Sports & FitnessA player makes a reckless tackle on an opponent. What card does the referee show?Sports & FitnessHow wide is a full-size soccer goal, measured between the inside of the posts?

That's stuff everyone should know.