In the world of football, referees play a crucial role in maintaining order. One way to measure their strictness is by looking at the number of cards they issue. Let’s take a look at the referees who top the card – issuing records.

The Top 5 Card – Issuing Referees

5. Wolfgang Stark: An Average of 4.8 Cards per Game

Wolfgang Stark, the well – known German whistle – blower, is a regular in the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA World Cup. His officiating style is strict yet restrained. He can always keep the order in high – pressure games. When he shows a red card, it usually means the game has reached a critical point.

4. Antonio Mateu Lahoz: An Average of 5.6 Cards per Game

Antonio Mateu Lahoz, the “chatty” referee, is one of the most controversial judges in football. He likes to interact with players on the field and has an exaggerated expression, but he is uncompromising when it comes to issuing cards. In the 2022 World Cup match between the Netherlands and Argentina, he showed 17 yellow cards in a single game, setting a new World Cup record.

3. Daniele Orsato: An Average of 5.9 Cards per Game

Daniele Orsato is known as the most imposing man in Serie A. He is never afraid of games with a fiery atmosphere. His card – issuing is clean and decisive. In his refereeing career, he has shown over 1,500 yellow cards and more than 100 red cards.

2. Howard Webb: An Average of 5.8 Cards per Game

In the 2010 FIFA World Cup final, Howard Webb, as the main referee, showed 14 yellow cards and 1 red card throughout the game. Some people joked that he almost emptied his pocket that night. Despite numerous controversies, Webb remains one of the most representative referees in England.

1. Pierluigi Collina: Nearly 2,000 Cards Issued in Total

Pierluigi Collina, the “bald devil”, is a legend in the referee world. His glance can quiet the players. He doesn’t issue unnecessary cards but is always firm. Because of his aura in controlling the game and calm judgment, he was rated by FIFA as the greatest referee in history. Even years after his retirement, he is still a synonym for card – issuing.

Conclusion

These referees have left a deep mark in the history of football with their card – issuing records. Each of them has their own unique style, but they all play an important part in ensuring the fairness and order of the game.