FIFA Warns That Betting Advertising on Refs’ Uniforms and VAR Rooms Is Still Banned

The International Federation of Football Associations (FIFA) sent a circular to all 211 federations reminding them of the ban on bookmaker advertising on referees’ uniforms, in VAR booths, and video review areas, which has been in effect since 2020.

The ban on advertising on referee uniforms, in the video operation room, and the VAR review area has been reinforced by a recent FIFA circular.

FIFA’s Regulations on the Organization of Refereeing in Member Associations, notably Article 15, Sections 1 and 4, serve as the foundation for the directive. The use of sponsor advertisements in video rooms, on referee uniforms, and in VAR review zones is governed by these provisions.

Strict Ban on All VAR and Broadcast Components

FIFA is reminding all member associations that it’s strictly forbidden to display any gambling-related advertising, including advertisements for casinos and betting organizations, on referee uniforms, in the VAR video room, or the on-field VAR review area during games and competitions under its authority. That’s what Section 1 makes quite clear.

This prohibition also covers any banners or signs that might be shown during a VAR review on television, as well as any advertisements for drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or political, racist, or religious content.

Limitations on Sponsorships for Referee Uniforms

FIFA further reiterates that advertisements on referee uniforms are prohibited if they interfere with the sponsorship of either opposing side. In these situations, match officials aren’t allowed to wear the conflicting sponsor’s branding, and any related advertising must be taken out of the VAR room and review area prior to the start of the game.

FIFA further restates that referee shirts can’t have any advertising on the front. Only official badges, the member federation’s insignia, and a little logo from the manufacturer of the referee’s uniform are allowed in that area. Similarly, referee shorts, stockings, and shoes aren’t allowed to have any advertising on them other than the manufacturer’s emblem.

Brazilian Football Confederation Still Allows Showing Brands Associated with Betting Sponsors

Due to multiple instances of ban violations, including in Brazil, FIFA was forced to resend the letter. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) continues to allow displaying betting sponsor-related brands in areas related to VAR, such as on the totem supporting the match-checking monitor.

This is due to naming rights contracts. Campeonato Brasileiro Série A and Copa do Brasil, for example, have as their main partner Betano, a bookie’s website that gives its name to the competitions. Even though Brazilian Championship matches remained consistent in displaying the betting sponsor everywhere, after notification from FIFA, the CBF will need to adapt.