Labdarúgójátékvezet

Labdarúgójátékvezet, a Hungarian term, translates to "football referee" in English. This individual is responsible for enforcing the Laws of the Game during a football (soccer) match. Their primary role is to ensure fair play, maintain discipline, and make impartial decisions on the field.

The referee's authority begins before the match and extends until its conclusion, including any periods of half-time interval or extra time. They are the ultimate decision-maker on the field and their decisions are considered final. Key duties include starting and stopping play, awarding free kicks and penalty kicks, issuing yellow and red cards for misconduct, and signaling goals.

Referees are typically assisted by assistant referees (linesmen) who help in signaling fouls, offsides, and when the ball goes out of play. In professional matches, a fourth official also assists the referee with various administrative and logistical tasks. The decisions made by the referee and their assistants are crucial for the smooth and fair progression of the game.