A Norwegian player was shown a red card for calling an opponent “gay” as part of new guidelines to crack down on the use of homophobic language.
The Baerum SK midfielder Simen Juklerod was sent off by referee Anders Gjermshus during their first division game at the weekend against Sandnes Ulf, after Norway’s head of referees having previously warned players that using the word “in an insulting or offensive manner” would result in a red card.
The score was 2-2 when the incident took place, with Baerum going on to lose 3-2.
“There was a second I was not thinking, and said the second word [gay], yes,” said Juklerod. “Of course it’s completely lame. But I still think that’s not a red card.”
Baerum are investigating the incident but the head of referees Terje Hauge believes the suspension will stand.
“It is something that’s been discussed several times after an incident a couple of years ago when a yellow card was given in a similar situation,” he said.
“We’ve told our referees that if they hear it clearly and there is no doubt about what’s been said then it should be punished with a red card.”
