FIFA reminds of ban on gambling advertising on referee uniforms and VORs

FIFA has sent a letter to its member associations reminding them of the ban on gambling advertising on referee uniforms and in the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) rooms after violations were identified in some countries.

The organisation recalled Article 15, paragraphs 1 and 4, which allow sponsor logos to be placed on match officials’ uniforms, but impose a strict ban on advertising tobacco, alcohol, drugs and any gambling establishments. In games where VAR is used, sponsorship material may be present in the Video Operations Room (VOR) and on the Referee's Referee Viewing Area (RRA), but only if the requirements set out in paragraph 1 are fully complied with.

“In view of the above, FIFA Member Associations are kindly reminded that, in matches and competitions organised under their jurisdiction, any form of gambling advertising (including casinos or betting companies) is strictly prohibited on the shirts of match officials, in the VOR and the RRA,” FIFA said in a statement.

Advertising on referees' uniforms is also prohibited if it creates a conflict of interest with advertising used by either of the two teams participating in the match.