FIFA bans gambling advertising for referees
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13 Aug 2025 •
Reading time: 2 minutes FIFA is tightening its rules against gambling-related advertising in refereeing, now prohibiting the presence of betting company logos on referees’ uniforms and key areas, in order to preserve the integrity and impartiality of global football.
In its circular no. 1938, the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) announced the new rules in force for the regulation of gambling advertising.
From now on, any promotion of betting and gambling companies is prohibited on referees’ uniforms and in critical areas where decisions are made, such as the Video Operation Room (VOR) and the Referee Review Area (RRA), in order to protect the impartiality of officials and the trust of players, coaches and spectators.
Strict regulations on uniforms and refereeing areas
The new guidelines formally prohibit any logos or promotional messages from gambling companies on jerseys, equipment and areas associated with refereeing decisions.
These areas, where the most sensitive decisions are made, such as video reviews, must remain free from any commercial influence that could create a perception of bias.
FIFA goes further: if a referee sponsor has a conflict of interest with a team or entity involved in the match, their advertising must be removed immediately. As the circular emphasises, impartiality is not limited to the absence of corruption, but also includes the absence of any perception of bias. This measure therefore aims to neutralise any risk of direct or indirect influence on refereeing decisions.
Strengthening public trust
Football is a global spectacle that relies on trust. Fans, players and coaches must believe that every decision is made in a spirit of absolute fairness.
By removing all betting-related advertising from refereeing areas, FIFA is not only acting on the reality of impartiality, but also on its perception by the general public.By severing all direct commercial links between referees and gambling operators, the governing body is ensuring that the role of the referee remains solely focused on the game, free from any economic pressure.