Back in January 2016, Serie B introduced the first-ever green card system in football. But, unlike the other cards, this card doesn’t penalise you, it recognises your honesty and integrity.
This is a virtual card that is not handed out, but can be earned during matches if you assist the referee with his decision-making by admitting to intentionally putting the ball out of play, or diving on the penalty area.
“It’s a symbolic award. It can be something very simple. The important thing is to recognise acts of fair play. This is just one part of a series of initiatives on and off the pitch. Respect has to come first and that’s where this green card comes into play.” Serie B president, Andrea Abodi said.
The first ever green card was issued on the 1st of October during the Virtus Entella v Vicenza game. Vicenza’s attacker Cristian Galano was given the first ever green card, when Galano admitted to the referee that the ball did not hit any Virtus Entella defenders before going for a corner. The referee then reversed his decision and Virtus was given a goal kick.
Cristian #Galano del @VicenzaCalcio è stato il destinatario del primo Cartellino Verde: ecco perchè 😉 #SerieB #CalcioVero pic.twitter.com/orq9barJwq
— Lega B (@Lega_B) October 4, 2016
At the end of the Serie B, the player with the most green cards will also receive a special reward. Perhaps we’ll see other leagues employing this system in the near future as well?
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