What does an assistant referee do under the Laws?

Under Law 6 (2026/27) other match officials assist the referee in controlling the match, but the final decision is always taken by the referee. The match officials operate under the direction of the referee. In the event of undue interference or improper conduct, the referee will relieve them of their duties and report to the appropriate authorities.

Assistant referees indicate when:

• the whole of the ball leaves the field of play and which team is entitled to a corner kick, goal kick or throw-in
• a player in an offside position may be penalised
• a substitution is requested
• at penalty kicks, the goalkeeper moves off the goal line before the ball is kicked and whether the ball crosses the line

Your assistance also includes monitoring the substitution procedure. Along with the other on-field officials, you assist the referee with offences when you have a clearer view, inspecting the field, balls and players' equipment, and keeping records of time, goals and misconduct. You may enter the field to help control the 9.15 m (10 yard) distance.

You are one of the "on-field" match officials, together with the referee, fourth official, additional assistant referees and reserve assistant referee.

Source: IFAB Laws of the Game 2026/27, Law 6 (https://www.theifab.com/laws-of-the-game-documents/).