FIFA Bans Gambling Ads on Referees' Uniforms

FIFA has issued a new circular with stricter restrictions on advertising on referees' uniforms. The world football governing body now prohibits any advertising related to gambling and betting, as well as advertisements for alcohol, tobacco, or narcotics.

These prohibitions also apply to the VAR room and the on-field review area. The regulation extends to visual elements during television broadcasts, such as banners and digital signs displayed during VAR reviews.

The decision is based on Article 15 of the FIFA regulations for the organization of refereeing in member associations, specifically paragraphs 1 and 4. Advertising is prohibited on the front of referees' jerseys, as it is reserved for the federation emblem, the referee badge, and the uniform manufacturer's logo. No advertising is allowed on referees' shorts, socks, or shoes.

In the event of a conflict of interest with a team sponsor, the referee is obliged to remove or change the advertisement.