Team A is awarded a direct free kick close to the opponents’ penalty area. The referee clearly informs the attacking player(s) to wait for the whistle before restarting play and approaches Team B players to ensure they respect the required distance from the ball. At the same time, Team A player takes a free kick before the referee gives a signal to do so. What is the correct decision?

Question

Accepted Answer

The free kick must be retaken and the player who took the kick is cautioned (yellow card) for unsporting behaviour.