What suspensions follow the cards I show?
Rule- South Africa
- SAFA
- IFAB Laws of the Game
- SAFA Uniform Rules
- Amateur leagues
- Senior
- 2026/27
- Referees
In SAFA official competitions, the Uniform Rules impose automatic suspensions, so your report must record every card accurately:
| Offence | Automatic suspension |
|---|---|
| Player sent off | Next 2 matches (Rule 26.1) |
| 4 cautions in the season | Next 2 matches, except during play-offs or representative games (Rule 27.1) |
| Club official ordered off the field or technical area | Next 3 matches away from the field and technical area (Rule 26.2) |
The SAFA Disciplinary Code (18 August 2012) sets minimum overall suspensions for some direct red cards, including the automatic ban:
| Direct red card for | Minimum |
|---|---|
| Unsporting conduct towards a match official | 4 matches |
| Assaulting a match official | 6 months |
| Spitting at a match official | 12 months |
| Assaulting an opponent or other person | 2 matches |
| Spitting at an opponent or other person | 6 matches |
Involvement in a carries a suspension of at least . Fines may also be imposed.
Updated 22 Oct 2026