The Guardian · November 5, 2026

Referee hands out record 53 red cards after chaos at under-20s game in Brazil

A referee issued a record 53 red cards during an under-20s match in Brazil's Minas Gerais state after a brawl erupted, including 43 player dismissals and two board members being sent off. The chaos was reportedly triggered by a goal celebration during the championship semi-final between Uberlandia and Mamore.