Who governs the Laws of the Game in football?

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The International Football Association Board (IFAB) governs the Laws of the Game in football.

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) is the designated guardian of football's Laws of the Game. This body is a collaborative entity, comprising the four British Football Associations (FAs) and Fifa, which serves as the global governing authority for football.
Composition of the IFAB

The IFAB's structure ensures representation from key footballing bodies. It is composed of the four British Football Associations: the Scottish FA, the FA of England, the Football Association of Wales, and the Irish Football Association. Alongside these national associations sits Fifa, the worldwide governing body responsible for overseeing and maintaining the Laws of the Game across all international competitions.
Philosophy and Spirit of the Laws

The IFAB articulates a philosophy that emphasizes the universality and fairness of football. The Laws are designed to be consistent globally, from the highest professional tournaments like the Fifa World Cup™ down to grassroots matches. This uniformity is considered a significant strength, fostering fair play and mutual respect among players, officials, and spectators. The organisation highlights that the best matches occur when players demonstrate respect for each other and the officials, minimising the need for referee intervention.
Referee's Authority and Decision-Making

Within each match, the referee holds ultimate authority to enforce the Laws. Their decisions, made to the best of their ability and in accordance with the Laws and the spirit of the game, are considered final regarding facts connected with play, including the outcome of the match and whether a goal is scored. Referees are empowered to issue disciplinary actions, such as yellow and red cards, for infringements. Fifa's Disciplinary Code, which governs matches and competitions organised by Fifa, reinforces that decisions taken by the referee on the field of play are final and generally not subject to review by Fifa's judicial bodies, except in instances of obvious error like mistaken identity.

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Who governs the Laws of the Game in football?

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