Players are the most important people in the sport. Playing for the Team, and for the Team to win, is the most fundamental part of the game. But not winning at any cost – Fair Play and respect for all others in the game is fundamentally important. This Code focuses on players involved in top-class football. Nevertheless, the key concepts in the Code are valid for players at all levels.

Obligations towards the game:
a player should…

Make every effort to develop their own sporting abilities, in terms of skill, technique, tactics and stamina
Give maximum effort and strive for the best possible performance during a game, even if his Team is in a position where the desired result has already been achieved
Set a positive example for others, particularly young players and supporters
Avoid all forms of gamesmanship and time-wasting
Always have regard for the best interests of the game, including where publicly expressing an opinion on the game and any particular aspect of it, including others involved in the game
Not use inappropriate language

Obligations towards one's own team:
a player should…

Make every effort consistent with Fair Play and the Laws of the Game to help his own Team win
Resist any influence which might, or might be seen to, bring into question his commitment to the Team winning
Respect for the laws of the game and the competition rules:
a player should…

Know and abide by the Laws, rules and spirit of the game, and the competition rules
Accept success and failure, victory and defeat, equally
Resist any temptation to take banned substances or use banned techniques
Respect towards opponents:
a player should…

Treat opponents with due respect at all times, irrespective of the result of the game
Safeguard the physical fitness of opponents, avoid violence and rough play, and help injured opponents
Respect towards match officials:
a player should…

Accept the decision of the Match Official without protest
Avoid words or actions which may mislead a Match Official
Show due respect towards Match Officials
Respect towards team officials:
a player should…

Abide by the instructions of their Coach and Team Officials, provided they do not contradict the spirit of this Code
Show due respect towards the Team Officials of the opposition
Obligations towards the supporters:
a player should…

Show due respect to the interests of supporters