WILL THERE BE MANY YELLOW AND RED CARDS?

Historical Trends in World Cup Cards

Since cards were introduced in the World Cup (Mexico 1970), they have been a key part of the game. But their frequency has varied greatly depending on the refereeing style, the rules, and the context of each tournament.

A Look at the Numbers

Germany 2006 saw a record number of cards: 345 yellows and 28 reds. The famous Portugal vs. Netherlands match produced 16 yellows and 4 reds, the most heated match in modern history. In contrast, Russia 2018 saw a sharp drop: only 219 yellows and 4 reds throughout the entire tournament. At Qatar 2022, the figures were 227 yellow cards and 6 red cards. There is a clear trend towards fewer red cards, but yellow cards remain frequent.

Game-changing rules

FIFA has introduced measures to protect the spectacle: stricter penalties for violent tackles, more accurate VAR reviews, and control of effective playing time. This reduces the "anything goes" attitude of the past, but also generates cards for tactical fouls or delays.

• Germany 2006: all-time record with 345 yellow cards

• Brazil 2014: average of 3.4 cards per match

• Qatar 2022: drop in reds, but constant yellows

Although there is technological control, football remains passionate and cards are far from disappearing. In fact, in key matches, they tend to appear more frequently.

Teams and players most likely to receive cards

Not all national teams play the same way. Some teams rely on a physical style of play, while others stand out for their high press or "intelligent tactical fouls." In this context, certain countries and players are often on referees' radars.

Who's the toughest?

Historically, teams like Uruguay, Serbia, and Colombia have had a strong marking style and played on the edge. In 2022, Saudi Arabia received the most yellow cards with 14 in just three matches. Mexico, while not violent, accumulated 9 yellow cards for tactical fouls. Players with a reputation for being "card-happy" In every World Cup there are players who stand out as much for their skill as for their number of cards. In 2022, Amrabat (Morocco), Otamendi (Argentina) and Joško Gvardiol (Croatia) were among the most cautioned. Players in defensive or holding roles tend to accumulate cards due to their position.

• Saudi Arabia: 4.7 cards per game in Qatar

• Uruguay: averages 2 cards per game in final stages

• Otamendi: 3 cards in 7 games at Qatar 2022

Intense playing styles, suffocating pressure, and physical duels are a perfect recipe for bookings. Some call it "dirty play," others see it as "grit." But there are cards involved.

What could change at the 2026 World Cup

With the new format expanded to 48 teams and 104 matches, the 2026 World Cup could see more cards simply due to volume. But there are also structural factors that could affect discipline on the field.

More matches, more risk

There will be 40 more matches than in previous editions. That means more opportunities to see hard tackles, protests, and yes: cards. Furthermore, the format change may force teams to play at their limit from the group stage, seeking to differentiate themselves by goals or points difference. VAR refereeing and zero tolerance. VAR has evolved and is expected to be faster and more accurate. FIFA is also reinforcing the use of cards for protests and time-wasting. There's even talk of implementing a "blue card" for temporary suspensions (hockey-style), although it's still in testing.

• 2026 Format: 48 teams, 12 groups

• VAR 2.0: Faster and more automated reviews

• "Blue card": Possibility of temporary punishment

In short: yes, we could see a lot of cards. But beyond the number, the important thing will be how they impact key matches, whether they affect players or alter strategies. As always, football is played with your head... and sometimes with your cleats up front.