Unlike yellow and red cards, which are punitive, the white card rewards positive behavior.
Studies in behavioral psychology suggest that positive reinforcement can lead to more durable behavioral change.
A Milestone in Portugal: First Use in Professional Soccer on January 23, 2023
On January 23, 2023, a landmark event occurred in professional soccer during a women's cup match between Sporting Lisbon and Benfica in Portugal. Referee Catarina Campos made history by issuing the first white card in a professional match to acknowledge the medical staff of both teams who had rushed to help someone unwell in the dugout. The crowd responded warmly to this action, emphasizing the card's potential value in professional settings.
Reception and Ongoing Debates: A Mixed Bag of Responses
The white card has met with varying degrees of acceptance. Internal surveys from soccer associations surveyed about adopting this new rule indicate that about 80% of coaches and referees believe that it might enhance sportsmanship. However, its debut in Portugal on January 23, 2023, elicited a mixed reaction on social media. While many praised the initiative for its positive impact on the game, others questioned its necessity, viewing it as merely symbolic.
A Look Back: Michel Platini's Different Vision
The notion of a white card is not entirely new to soccer. Former UEFA president Michel Platini had previously suggested a white card as a disciplinary measure against dissent, which would result in a 10-minute "sin-bin" for the offending player. However, his concept did not gain traction and differs from the current positive-reinforcement approach.
Potential for Premier League Adoption: An Uncertain Future
As of now, the Premier League has not shown indications of adopting the white card system. It remains a Portuguese initiative and is not yet led by the International Football Association Board. However, as more leagues consider its adoption and monitor its reception, this could change in the future.
