What is the guard of honor in soccer?
You have probably heard the term “Guard of honor” in soccer but don’t know what it is or what it means, well, you are in the right place because in this article you are going to learn everything there is to know about it.
Let’s get started.
What Is The Guard Of Honor In Soccer?
In soccer, the guard of honor is the process of paying respect to a different team in the same league. It occurs when a team has been crowned champion before the League ends. In this case, the next opponent would have to display a guard of honor for the champions before the match kicks off.
For example, if a team is crowned champions in today’s game and still has a couple of games to play, their next opponent would have to give them a guard of honour.
Most players don’t want to give a guard of honor, especially when it is a direct opponent to the title.
This includes Real Madrid and Barcelona in Spain, Manchester City and Liverpool in England, PSG and Marseille in France, and Milan and Juventus in Italy.
Say Real Madrid is crowned champion after their game against Sevilla, and they have to face Barcelona for their next game, in this case, Barcelona would have to give a guard of honor to Madrid players.
But, is it a necessity to give a guard of honor?
Is Guard Of Honour Compulsory?
No, the guard of honour is not compulsory. Although it is a way to congratulate the league winner, no one is required to do it.
For example, in 2018, Barcelona was the champion and travelled to the Bernabeu for their next game. Well, Real Madrid Refused to do the guard of honor. The reason being, that Barcelona didn’t reciprocate during Madrid’s win in the past.
So, teams have the right to decide whether they want to pay respect or not. There are no FIFA or UEFA rules that encourage teams to do a guard of honor.
As a matter of fact, according to besoccer.com, the guard of honour started back in1955 with Manchester United congratulating Chelsea for winning the league.
Final Thoughts
The guard of honor is a way to congratulate the winner of the league. It happens in the same season when a team is crowned champion before the end of the league. It happens almost everywhere in the world now.
It is important to form a guard of honor as it shows Fairplay and respect for the beautiful game for future generations.
But It is not mandatory and any team can refuse to do it.
Do you have any questions? consider leaving them in the comment section below, and I will get back to you.