What is in the soccer referee's spray?

The soccer referee's spray is a tool used to draw a temporary line on the grass of the soccer field. It is primarily used to signal the minimum distance that opposing players must maintain from the ball during a free kick or kickoff.

The spray is used in many soccer leagues around the world, including FIFA, UEFA, and Major League Soccer (MLS). It was first introduced during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, and since then it has become an essential tool for soccer referees.

The spray is produced in a pressurized can, which contains a chemical solution based on propane and butane. When the dispensing button is pressed, the solution is vaporized and forms a thin, visible line on the grass. The line is temporary and disappears naturally after a short time, usually within a few minutes.

The referee's spray has been the subject of numerous controversies and criticisms over the years. Some have argued that the spray interrupts the flow of the game and can confuse players, while others have raised doubts about its effectiveness in signaling the correct distance. Despite these criticisms, the referee's spray has become an integral part of the game and is used in many soccer leagues around the world.

In addition to signaling the minimum distance during free kicks and kickoffs, the referee's spray is also used in other situations. For example, it can be used to signal the position of a wall during a penalty kick, or to indicate the position of a player who must be kept away from the ball during a foul.

In addition, the referee's spray is also used in other sports besides soccer, such as futsal and beach soccer. In these sports, it is used to signal the position of the ball during fouls and to indicate the minimum distance that opposing players must maintain from the ball.

In conclusion, the soccer referee's spray is a tool used to draw a temporary line on the grass of the soccer field, primarily to signal the minimum distance that opposing players must maintain from the ball during a free kick or kickoff. It is used in many soccer leagues around the world, and is also used in other sports such as futsal and beach soccer.