Why are there so few red cards in the Premier League?

[2whistle]

Historically, two European leagues, the Premier League and Bundesliga have the lowest red card sanctions through the years, compared to all the European leagues.

What is more relevant is the trend (if?). When these numbers are plotted (someone probably already has), the trend is downward, meaning the red card sanctions are lower than earlier years.

And then there is the VARiable after its introduction in ’16/’17. Very likely that the PL and BL players are benefitting from the VAR-decisions. That means, there will be a corresponding increase in the yellow card sanctions.

Officiating standards are also to be considered. There is more physicality in PL and BL and the officials from other leagues are most likely stricter, have more emphasis, on physical safety.