WFA Law – Sin Bin Rules Explained

Temporary dismissals, commonly known as sin bins, are used in walking football to deal with cautionable offences fairly and consistently. They allow matches to continue while discouraging repeated fouls or unsporting behaviour.

This guide explains how sin bins work under WFA laws.

Referee Authority

The referee may issue a blue card at any time during the match — including before kick-off, at half-time, during extra time and during penalty shoot-outs. A blue card results in the player being temporarily removed from the game.

Temporary dismissals apply to all players, including goalkeepers.

What Happens When a Player Is Sin-Binned

• The referee shows a blue card

• The referee points to the temporary dismissal area

• The player must immediately leave the pitch

• The sin bin period begins when play restarts

How Long Is the Sin Bin?

The sin bin period is 10% of the total match time.

Returning to the Match

• The player may return only with the referee’s permission

• They may re-enter when the ball is next out of play

• Substitutes can only be used after the sin bin period has ended

If the sin bin time runs into the second half or extra time, the remaining time must still be served.

Players still serving a sin bin at full time are allowed to take part in penalty shoot-outs.

Why Sin Bins Are Important

Sin bins protect player safety, reduce repeated fouls and promote respect across walking football.

Part of the official WFA Walking Football Rules Hub:
👉 /walking-football-rules/