Red cards were introduced in 1970 , first used at the FIFA World Cup in Mexico. They later appeared in English football in 1976 , and the card system was made part of the Laws of the Game in 1992.

Quick context

The idea was developed to make referee decisions clearer, especially across language barriers. A red card means a player is sent off for a serious offense or for accumulating a second yellow card in many competitions.

Notable milestones

  • 1970: First introduction at the World Cup.
  • 1974: First World Cup red card shown, according to historical accounts.
  • 1976: Debut in English domestic football.
  • 1992: Incorporated into the Laws of the Game.

TL;DR: Red cards were introduced in 1970 at the World Cup.