Credits: IMAGO / Jan Huebner

Blue and Purple Cards: Challenge Card for Managers in Trial in FIFA U-20 World Cup, Rule Explained

Credits: IMAGO / Jan Huebner

A new chapter in football officiating has begun with FIFA’s trial of the Football Video Support (FVS) system. This new system is predicted to be a revolutionary initiative that introduces blue and purple ‘challenge cards’ for managers to request on-field reviews.

The experimental rule is currently being tested at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile. It is designed to give coaches limited power to challenge refereeing decisions. It’s a move that could reshape how match incidents are reviewed.

During the U20 World Cup semi-final, Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi used the new 'challenge card' introduced by FIFA to allow a manager to call for a VAR review, challenging a possible refereeing error 😳🟦

The card is being trialled at the U20 WC, with a view to being… pic.twitter.com/6Cmvu8XrjR
— OneFootball (@OneFootball) October 16, 2025

A New Way to Challenge Decisions

Under the new system, each team’s manager receives a card. These cards are blue on one side and purple on the other. They can be used twice per match to demand a referee review. Much like in cricket or tennis, a challenge is retained if the decision is overturned.

The challenge is lost if the referee’s call stands. Coaches must signal their intent immediately after the incident by twirling a finger in the air and handing the card to the fourth official. The cards can be used only for specific situations such as goals, penalties, or direct red cards.

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They can only be used in cases of clear and obvious errors. Players can urge their managers to issue a challenge. However, the final call lies solely with the coach or the senior team official in their absence. The first high-profile use of the system came during Morocco’s semi-final clash against France.

In that match, coach Mohamed Ouahbi waved his purple card after his team’s penalty appeal was denied. The referee reviewed the footage but ultimately upheld the original decision. Thus, leading to a short delay but preserving transparency in a high-stakes moment.

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How FVS Differs from VAR

FIFA have been quick to clarify that FVS is not a replacement for VAR. Instead, it serves as a lightweight, cost-effective alternative for leagues or tournaments that lack the infrastructure for full VAR technology. The system is intended for competitions using up to four cameras rather than the extensive setups used in top-tier football.

FIFA Referees Committee chairman Pierluigi Collina explained, “FVS is a tool to support referees in competitions with fewer resources and cameras. It should not be seen as VAR or as a modified version of it.” Collina added that early trials have been “encouraging,” with more tests planned. They will test the cards at the U-17 World Cups in Qatar and Morocco in 2025.

FIFA

FIFA U-20 World Cup

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.