What Are Ligue 1 New Suspension Rules? How Can They Impact Players?

The top two divisions of French domestic football will witness a major overhaul in disciplinary rules from the upcoming season. Previously, according to the old rules, a player received a one-match suspension after accumulating three yellow cards in a 10-match period. The previous Ligue 1 Suspension Rules were very complex to track and manage effectively. Many believed that this rule created utmost perplexity among fans and players. Some teams also took advantage of this rule by committing intentional fouls and picking up yellow cards at the right time. However, the French top two divisions shall witness disciplinary rules and guidelines. In this article, we shall take a closer look at the new Ligue 1 suspension rules and analyze how they will impact the players.

What Are New Ligue 1 Suspension Rules?

According to the new Ligue 1 suspension rules, a player shall be handed a one-match ban after picking up five yellow cards. Also, the 10-match period rule will be abolished, and picking up five yellow cards at any instant in the league shall result in a one-match suspension. The Ligue 1 rules shall be applicable for the entirety of the 34 league games played and are expected to bring greater clarity and transparency for referees, fans, coaches, and players. For example, even if a player picks up a yellow card in Matchweek 1 or later, it keeps accumulating until the final game of the season.

How will it impact the players and coaches?

Many footballing pundits have applauded the Ligue 1 New Rules by saying that it could be a game-changer to revolutionize the top two divisions in French football. The new Ligue 1 rules are also expected to encourage sportsmanship values among players across the entire season. Also, there is no hassle of tracking cards and counting a 10-match period. It discourages repeated petty fouls and rewards consistent discipline instead of being punished for small streaks.

Similar to how a coin has two sides, the new Ligue 1 suspension rules don't allow reset, redemption, or any cleansing period, and may seem harsh on defensive players as the nature of their roles penalises them more frequently. Many coaches in the Ligue 1, who used to tactically commit fouls, also need to be alert.

Overall, the Ligue 1 suspension rules now make it much simpler and transparent. Also, the new Ligue 1 rules match the disciplinary standards set in other top domestic leagues like the Bundesliga, Serie A, and others.