The FFBiH Referees Committee held an urgent meeting on March 2, 2025, to review the referee observer’s from the 19th Round of the BiH Wwin League, specifically the match between HŠK Zrinjski and FK Velež. The analysis of key incidents from the match led to the following conclusions:
• 78' – The referee failed to send off FK Velež’s player No. 6 (second yellow card) for an overly aggressive tackle.
• 86' – In the build-up to HŠK Zrinjski’s goal, attacker No. 99 used his arm, which was in an unnatural position, to control the ball before continuing the play. Referee Jelić failed to notice this during the game. Following the goal, in line with VAR protocol, the VAR referee correctly called Jelić for an on-field review (OFR). Despite reviewing the footage, Jelić upheld his incorrect decision and allowed the goal to stand.
The Referees Committee considers this a clear handball offense punishable under all elements of the Laws of the Game and relevant guidelines.
Given the above, and in accordance with the Referee Evaluation Guidelines, this level of officiating is deemed disappointing. As a result, referee Jelić has been suspended from match assignments under the FFBiH Refereeing Regulations.
The Committee confirmed that no major refereeing errors were identified in other matches of Round 20.
The Referees Committee remains dedicated to ensuring fair and equal conditions for all clubs in the Wwin League BiH and the BiH Cup competitions. Any violations will result in strict disciplinary actions in line with the regulations.
