The real reason why it is forbidden to take off your shirt after a goal

In 2004, FIFA implemented a controversial modification to Article 12 of its regulations, establishing sanctions for players who removed their shirts during a goal celebration. Why was this change implemented? A penalty for passion?

Why did FIFA make such a move? Why penalize one of the most emotional moments in football, a goal celebration? Many people did not understand the reasoning behind it, but FIFA did not bother to explain it either.

For years, the most widely accepted version of the rule's origin had a name: Diego Forlán.

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During the 2002/2003 season with Manchester United, the Uruguayan striker scored a last-minute goal against Southampton that secured the Red Devils three crucial points.

Forlán went wild, took off his shirt, and celebrated the goal as if it were the World Cup final, a moment of pure ecstasy. During the eccentric celebration, Southampton players rushed the ball to the middle of the pitch to resume play, while the Uruguayan was still shirtless.

The image of shirtless players screaming around the pitch in pure jubilee terrified FIFA which chose to stomp down on such celebrations, however, it wasn't a major reason as to why the regulations were changed.

Nor does the potential time loss from removing the shirt matter, as the referee can always add extra time.

While considering religious 'respect', FIFA had to ensure its image aligned with the standards of countries with strict nudity regulations.

It also made sense that the measure had to do with the stands. Fans can, at times, be unpredictable...

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The reality is that if we take footballers for what they are, professionals, it is hard to believe that in any other line of work, such behavior would be deemed acceptable.

The truth is that the origin of this rule was much simpler than many people may believe: money.

The most rewarding moment in football is a goal. It's the all-mighty finish for a player, where all emotions unleash, a climax. It's the moment all eyes are glued on the screen, and in terms of advertisements, it's the golden hour.

The main sponsors of a club claim ownership over the display and visibility of the shirt and deem it necessary to be shown at all times.

It was Jérôme Valcke, FIFA's director of merchandising and television at the time, who promoted this rule, which was ultimately established and has been maintained since.

Specifically, point 12 of the FIFA Regulations states that any player who removes his shirt will be given a yellow card and fined, even if it is for a good cause... Let us know what you think in the comments!

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