World Cup Rules: What Are Yellow and Red Cards? What Are Accumulation Rules?

It's a scene we've seen played throughout the history of the World Cup time and time again. 

A hard foul by a player that sends his opponent writhing in pain onto the pitch. The referee races over, whistling frantically while players from both sides gather around to push and plead.

Sometimes the official gives just a stern verbal warning to the player involved. But sometimes that official pulls out either a yellow or red card, altering the course of a game. So what do these cards signify? And changes are in store for the 2026 World Cup? Let's dive in.  

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A yellow card is a disciplinary measure used by the referee to caution (book) a player for a foul or offense. Yellow cards can be shown to anyone involved in the match — players, substitutes, personnel on the bench, coaches and other team officials. Think of this card as a caution sign, warning the player of their infraction. The referee shows the card, but the player stays in the game. Among the most common yellow-card offenses include:

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Two yellow cards equals one red card, which we will get to here momentarily. If a player gets two yellows in the same match, that means an automatic ejection from the match. 

The team must then play with one less player for the duration of the match. If it's a coach or team official who gets two yellow cards, they must exit the sideline and can no longer be part of the game. 

Much like the yellow card, a red card is a disciplinary measure used by the referee. But it's usually for a more serious or egregious foul. As previously noted, any player or coach who is shown two yellow cards in a game is given an automatic red card and sent off.