World Rugby approves global trial of new red card rule
.jpg)
Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 22.05.25. | 17:31
The new rule aims to strike a balance between maintaining the fairness and drama of elite matches while reinforcing the sport’s commitment to player welfare
World Rugby has approved a global trial of the 20-minute red card rule in elite competitions. This marks a significant shift in how foul play will be handled at the highest level of the game.
Follow our WhatsApp channel for more news
This decision follows a year-long review of successful closed trials in international and top-flight club rugby.
The new rule aims to strike a balance between maintaining the fairness and drama of elite matches while reinforcing the sport’s commitment to player welfare.
Under the trial, any player who receives a red card for foul play that is not deemed deliberate or intentional will be permanently removed from the match.
However, after 20 minutes, the team will be allowed to bring on a substitute, returning to a full complement of players.
Crucially, referees will still retain the authority to issue a full and permanent red card for any incident of deliberate or highly dangerous foul play.
Two yellow cards will now also result in a 20-minute red card, unless the second offence is considered serious enough to warrant a full dismissal.
World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson defended the move, stating that the new rule punishes the individual without compromising the entire team or the quality of the contest.
“Our mission is to ensure rugby is a compelling sport to play and watch. The 20-minute red card preserves the fairness and drama of elite competition by punishing the individual, not the entire team or the spectacle,” Robinson said.
He further emphasised the importance of player welfare in the sport, highlighting that rigorous data monitoring around head injuries, tackle height, and concussion will continue.
Robinson assured that if there is any evidence suggesting the trial increases risk to players, it will be stopped immediately.
The 20-minute red card will be implemented in all elite competitions during the trial phase and is set to make its debut at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England this August. It will also be used during the upcoming U20 Championship in June.
In addition to the red card trial, the World Rugby Council approved the introduction of a centralised disciplinary process to enhance consistency and speed in decision-making.
The Council also resolved that, starting in 2025, all law trials in the men’s game will commence on August 1 each year, ensuring that international matches around the globe are played under the same set of rules.
.jpg)
