U.S. SOCCER POLICY 531-9 – Effective March 2025
Respect the Call. Respect the Game. Together, We Help GROW the Game.
U.S. Soccer Policy 531-9 Overview
U.S. Soccer Policy 531-9 Penalty Overview
The Penalties Matrix defines consequences associated with physical and non-physical offenses against Referees.
Understand what does and doesn’t constitute referee abuse – as well as the definitions for the different categories of abuse.
What is Non-Physical Abuse?
Contact doesn’t have to be made for damage to occur. Non-physical abuse – hurtful language and aggressive behavior – has no place in our game. It disrupts matches, interferes with the referee’s ability to do their job, and it hurts the game for everyone. Left unchecked, non-physical abuse takes an emotional toll and has the potential to escalate into physically dangerous situations. The updated policy is designed to eliminate this behavior.
What is Physical Abuse?
Physical abuse makes the game unsafe for everyone. It’s also easy to avoid. Outside of friendly handshakes, there’s never a reason to touch the referee. Any unwanted physical contact is considered physical abuse. Physical violence can also result in criminal charges, lawsuits, or medical liability.
Submit written reports of referee abuse within 48 hours of the incident if possible.
Report Physical or Non-Physical Referee Abuse HERE!
Note: Referees should report any instances of abuse using the USSF Referee Report and Supplemental Report forms. These reports should be submitted following the standard reporting procedures established by U.S. Soccer.