Following its introduction in various global competitions, including the 2025 Six Nations, the controversial 20-minute red card will be used in the Gallagher Prem from the 2025/26 season onwards.
Despite being a divisive issue amongst rugby fans, players, coaches and pundits alike, the 20 minute red card is going to be in use in the English top flight for the foreseeable future.
What is the 20 minute red card?
A 20-minute red card is shown to a player for foul play not deemed to be deliberate or intentional.
It will be awarded by a referee crossing his arms when awarding a red card on field to signify a 20-minute red card.
In contrast to a yellow card or sin bin, the player who is shown the 20 minute red card would not be allowed to return to the field and would be substituted at the expiry of the sanction.
A 20-minute red card will also be applied to a situation which sees a player receive their second yellow card of the match.
Once a 20-minute red card has been awarded, there will be no further TMO or "Bunker" involvement, meaning the decision from the referee will be final.
Will the current red card rule still exist?
Despite the implementation of the 20-minute red card, the usual red card will still be used in the Gallagher Prem.
This will be used for foul offences deemed to fall into the intentional or deliberate categories.
