UEFA has expressed support for the abolition of the “triple penalty” rule, which currently results in a penalty, a red card, and suspension for the last defender committing a foul in the penalty area. UEFA will seek a change where only a yellow card is applied in such situations.
Gianni Infantino, the Secretary General of UEFA, announced that a formal request for this change would be submitted to the International Football Association Board (IFAB), the body responsible for the laws of the game. The decision on this matter is expected to be discussed at the annual IFAB meeting scheduled to take place from February 28 to March 2, 2024, in Zurich, Switzerland.
Infantino emphasized the need to address the issue of the triple punishment, stating, “The Executive Committee asks IFAB to look into this subject at its meeting next year and to clarify the situation so that there are no red cards in the box.” The move is driven by a widespread belief that the current rule leads to perceived injustices in certain situations. The potential change aims to bring more balance and fairness to decisions involving the last defender committing a foul in the penalty area.
