How does Fifa’s Disciplinary Code limit reviewing referee decisions?

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Fifa's Disciplinary Code Sets Strict Limits on Reviewing Referee Decisions

Fifa's Disciplinary Code establishes that decisions made by a referee on the field of play are generally final and not subject to review by Fifa's judicial bodies, which include the Disciplinary Committee, Ethics Committee, and Appeal Committee. This principle is rooted in the Laws of the Game, which emphasize the referee's full authority and the finality of their judgments concerning facts connected with play. Protests regarding these factual decisions are not permitted, and they remain non-appealable unless explicitly stated otherwise within the Code.
Referee Decisions on Facts Connected with Play Are Final

The Laws of the Game, as governed by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), grant the referee complete authority to enforce the Laws during a match. Their decisions, made to the best of their ability and based on their opinion, are considered final, particularly concerning facts connected with play. This includes outcomes such as whether a goal is scored or the final result of the match. The Disciplinary Code reinforces this by stating that decisions taken by the referee on the field are final and may not be reviewed by Fifa's judicial bodies.
Limited Review Permitted Only for Obvious Errors

While the general rule is that referee decisions are final, Fifa's Disciplinary Code allows for a narrow exception: review is permissible only when a referee's decision involves an "obvious error." An example provided of such an error is mistaking the identity of a player who has been penalized. This provision acknowledges that in rare instances, a clear and undeniable mistake might occur that warrants scrutiny.
Review Scope Restricted to Disciplinary Consequences

Even in instances where an obvious error is identified, the scope of review by Fifa's judicial bodies is strictly limited. They are empowered to examine only the disciplinary consequences stemming from that decision, rather than the decision itself concerning the facts of play. Therefore, while the disciplinary outcome might be adjusted, the referee's initial judgment on the event itself remains beyond the purview of these Fifa committees.

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How does Fifa’s Disciplinary Code limit reviewing referee decisions?

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