How does an off-field foul play review (the bunker) decide whether a yellow card becomes red?
Rule- South Africa
- SA Rugby
- World Rugby
- TMO protocol
- Elite rugby
- Senior
- World Rugby laws
- 2026/27
- Match officials
From World Rugby's guideline on the 20-minute red card in elite rugby:
- The on-field officials and TMO watch replays on the big screen or sideline monitor.
- If the act is clearly intentional and highly dangerous after a short number of replays, the referee shows a permanent red card on the field. No off-field review happens.
- If the officials decide that at least the yellow card threshold is met, the referee may refer the incident for off-field review: the referee shows a yellow card and crosses arms above the head, and the player leaves for 10 minutes (Law 9.29).
- The FPRO (or the TMO, if there is no FPRO) has up to eight minutes to review all available footage and technology.
- They advise the referee that the card should either stay yellow or be upgraded to a 20-minute red card. They cannot recommend a permanent red.
- If upgraded, the referee shows a red card and the arms-crossed signal. The player does not return, and can be replaced after 20 minutes of playing time from the original incident.
Updated 21 Oct 2026