What happens if the appointed referee doesn't arrive?
Rule- South Africa
- SAFA
- IFAB Laws of the Game
- SAFA Uniform Rules
- Amateur leagues
- Senior
- 2026/27
- Referees
SAFA Competitions Uniform Rule 31:
- Each match is appointed a referee and two assistant referees, plus a fourth official where circumstances permit. Officials are appointed from the relevant panels by the Referees Appointments Committee, and must carry their appointment card or SMS and their SAFA registration card.
- If the appointed referee has not arrived 15 minutes before kick-off, the two teams must appoint another SAFA-accredited referee by mutual consent.
- If the teams can't agree, the match does not go ahead, and disciplinary steps may be taken against the match official(s) concerned.
- A substitute referee appointed this way has the same powers and status as an officially appointed referee.
Added 22 Oct 2026