1. RULES

• The London Ladies Cup U-16 2026 will be played according to the FIFA rules.

2. TOURNAMENT FORMAT

• 3 groups of 4 teams in each one of them will be formed (Group A, Group B and Group C).
• All teams in the group will play against the other teams of the same group.
• After the group stage, the 8 best teams will go into the quarter finales to compete for the first place.
• The other 4 teams will go into a poule where they all will play 3 more matches.
• Each game won results in 3 points.
• Each game tied results in 1 points.
• Each game lost results in 0 points.
• If at the end of the Playoff round classification, two or more teams have summed the same number of points, the classification of one or the other team shall be determined in the following manner:
• Result of the game between the tied teams. If more than two teams tied, the points of the matches played between them are counted;
  • Overall goal difference, both in favor and against;
  • Greater number of goals scored;
  • The least goals received;
  • Head to head
  • Fair play (fewer cards received. The sum of the cards will be measured the following way: yellow card=1, red card=2);
  • Tossing a coin.
• If a match, that needs a result for win or lost, is ended in a draw then penalties are taken by both teams. The amount of penalties in a row are 3 penalties. When necessary after this row penalties are taken by the system A-B-A-B until there is a winner.
• In the final game the row of penalties is 5 penalties. When necessary after this row penalties are taken by the system A-B-A-B until there is a winner.

3. TOURNAMENT PROGRAM

• The group stage will be played on the 14^thand possibly on the 15^th of August 2026.
• The qualification matches will be played on the 15^thof August 2026.
• The final and the rest of the final classification matches will be played on the 16^thof August 2026.

4. GAME TIME

• The group stage matches, quarter finals and semifinals will be played with a duration of 2 x 20 minutes and a break of 5 minutes between the two parts.
• The final game will be played with a duration of 2 x 25 minutes and a break of 5 minutes between the two parts.
• At the end of the second half of each match, a maximum of 3 minutes of additional time may be added to allow a final attack to be completed.
• Even in the case of stoppages due to injuries or other interruptions lasting longer than 3 minutes (e.g., 5 minutes), the additional time will still be limited to a maximum of 3 minutes.
• The referee will decide during the match how much additional time is added, up to the 3-minute maximum.

5. PLAYERS INFORMATION / SUBSTITUTIONS

• All players must present a valid ID or Passport ultimately before the first match of the tournament via the delegates. They will then be given the accreditation for tournament participants.
• A written team list (This list will be at the field manager) must be handed over to the field staff/secretary before every match.
• Goalkeepers are allowed to hold the ball for a maximum of 8 seconds after gaining full control. During the last 5 seconds, the referee will count down visibly with a raised hand. If the limit is exceeded, the opposing team will be awarded a corner kick.
• • 1 time exceeded the 8 seconds, a corner
  • 2 time exceeded the 8 seconds, warning and a corner
  • 3 time exceeded the 8 seconds, yellow and a corner
  • 4 time exceeded the 8 seconds, a corner
  • 5 time exceeded the 8 seconds, a warning and a corner
  • 6 time exceeded the 8 seconds, 2nd yellow & red card and a corner.
• A total of 7 substitutions can be made in each match, with a maximum of two stops during the second period. Substitutions may be made at half-time, these do not count as used substitution opportunities.
• A player who is substituted in a match can be bring on as a substitute again in this match within the other substitution rules mentioned.
• If the player is expelled with a direct red or two yellow cards then the player is not allowed on the field for the rest of the game.
• A player, who has been expelled with direct red card or two yellow cards during a match, CAN NOT play at least during the next match, depending on what the Organizing Committee decides.
• If a player receives 2 yellow cards in the group stage and/or the quarter finals, then the player will be expelled for the next match. The yellow cards will be waived when a team enters the semifinals (or last two final matches of the tournament).

6. REFEREES

• All referees and assistant referees will be assigned by the Organizing Committee.
• Captain as the point of contact. Only the team captain is allowed to communicate with the referee regarding decisions, questions, or protests during the match. Other players are not permitted to approach or engage in discussions with the referee. This applies to both formal decisions and informal communication.
• Exceptions. Players may address the referee in the following situations:
  – Emergencies such as injuries.
  – Requests for water breaks or medical attention.
• Penalties for violations. If a player who is not the captain addresses the referee without a valid reason, the referee may take the following actions:

– Verbal warning for the first offense.

– Yellow card for repeated offenses or persistent dissent.

• Captain’s responsibility. The captain is responsible for managing their team and ensuring that they adhere to this rule. The captain may approach the referee to ask for clarification or raise questions on behalf of the team, provided this is done respectfully.

7. RECLAMATIONS

• Any sports claim may be submitted in writing to the Organizing Committee within 30 minutes after the match in question.
• Claims on arbitration errors cannot modify the outcome of the match.
• The decision of the Organizing Committee is final and irrevocable.

8. EQUIPMENT

• All the teams must bring both their home and their away kit duly numbered to the tournament.
• In case of matching uniforms, it will be the visiting team (named in second place) which has to change the kit.
• Each player will have the same number, on both the home and away kit, and must maintain it throughout the tournament.

9. REQUIRED PAPERWORK IN EACH MATCH

• The delegate of each team must present 10 minutes before the match, the squad of the players for the match. It shall contain the name of the player and the number.
• No match will start without the field manager having the lists of players.

10. PUNCTUALITY

• All teams must be standing next to the field, at the side of the field manager, at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the match.

11. STAFF

• The goal of the Organizing Committee is that all teams will have a person from the Organizing Committee during the duration of the Tournament at their disposal for whatever they need.

12. PITCHES / MATERIAL

• The 3 pitches are all natural grass.
• The tournament will be played with a ball provided by the organization.

13. TROPHIES

• Trophies will be awarded at the final ceremony of the tournament which will take place at the end of the tournament, being mandatory the presence of all participating teams. The following trophies will be awarded:
• Best Scorer*
• Best Goalkeeper
• Best Player
• Trophies for all participating teams
• *In case of a tie, it will be determined the following manner:
  Penalty goals will not count;
  2. Higher number of goals scored in different matches;

14. CODE OF CONDUCT

• All participants, team officials, staff members, parents, supporters, and other attendees are bound by the London Ladies Cup Code of Conduct.
• Any violation of the Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary measures as determined by the Organising Committee. The Organising Committee has full authority to investigate incidents, impose sanctions, and take immediate action where necessary to ensure the safety, integrity, and proper conduct of the tournament.
• Decisions of the Organising Committee in this regard are final and binding.

15. MODIFICATION

• Any circumstance that has not been reflected in the regulations is exclusive competence of the Organizing Committee, being their final decision, reserving the right to add, interpret, modify and apply the rules according to their criteria and the needs of the tournament.

16. INFORMATION

• In case of doubts or questions refer to the Organizing Committee of the tournament.
• The Organizing Committee is not responsible for the missing of (personal) belongings.
• In situations and circumstances, where the aforementioned rules don’t provide in, the Organizing Committee will decide. The decision of the Organizing Committee is final and irrevocable.

IMPORTANT NOTES

The fields are natural grass and with dimensions adapted to the regulation of the FIFA Tournament Rules. Within the aforementioned facilities teams will have a changing room available at all matches. Everyone registered for the tournament (players and staff) must have their own health care insurance as well as federal approval by their Federation of football in their country. In each of the venues there is a doctor to treat and evaluate any injuries that may occur. All people registered to participate in the tournament must carry visible accreditation at all times to be able to move through the areas that require this type of ID.

This Code of Conduct applies to all teams participating in the London Ladies Cup, including players, coaches, staff members, parents, supporters, officials, and volunteers. By participating in the tournament, all parties agree to comply with the principles and rules set out below.

The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to ensure a safe, respectful, inclusive, and enjoyable tournament environment for everyone involved, both on and off the field.

1. Respect for Referees and Tournament Officials

Respectful behaviour towards referees and tournament officials is mandatory at all times. Decisions made by referees may be debatable, but must always be accepted and respected.

Any form of verbal or physical abuse, intimidation, or disrespect towards officials will not be tolerated and may lead to disciplinary action.

2. Respect for Opponents

Teams are expected to behave sportively and show respect towards opponents at all times. Unsporting behaviour such as provoking, taunting, cursing, threatening, or aggressive conduct is strictly prohibited. This applies both on and off the field of play.

3. Behaviour on Campus (Epsom College)

All teams will stay in the boarding houses of Epsom College. The campus is shared with other guests and staff, and everyone is entitled to peace, safety, and respect.

• Running, shouting, or causing disturbances in corridors, rooms, or common areas is not allowed
  • Quiet hours must be respected at all times, as instructed by the organisers or college staff
  • Instructions given by tournament staff or Epsom College staff must be followed without discussion

Failure to comply may result in disciplinary measures.

4. Cleanliness and Use of Facilities

Teams are responsible for keeping all facilities clean and tidy, including bedrooms, bathrooms, changing rooms, common areas, corridors, and sports facilities.

All waste must be disposed of in designated bins. Facilities must be left in a clean and orderly condition at the end of each day.

5. Smoking Policy

Smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere on the Epsom College campus. This includes all indoor and outdoor areas, boarding houses, sports facilities, and changing rooms. This rule applies to players, coaches, staff members, parents, and supporters at all times.

6. Schedule and Punctuality

Teams must adhere strictly to the tournament schedule, including match times, meals, training sessions, and other official activities. Failure to be present on time may cause disruption to the tournament and may result in disciplinary action.

7. Responsibility for Personal Belongings

Teams and individuals are responsible for their own personal belongings at all times. The tournament organisation and Epsom College are not liable for loss, theft, or damage to personal items.

8. Dress Code

Teams must wear appropriate and approved clothing during matches and training sessions. All instructions regarding playing kits, training wear, and off-field dress codes must be followed.

9. Health and Safety

The London Ladies Cup provides first aid support and emergency protocols during official tournament activities.

This Code of Conduct does not regulate sporting preparation or medical decision-making. Responsibility for player readiness, physical condition, and fitness to play remains with the teams and their staff.

Teams must inform tournament staff or first aid personnel immediately in the event of any injury or medical incident.

10. Equality, Inclusion and Non-Discrimination

The London Ladies Cup is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all participants and attendees. Discriminatory behaviour of any kind will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Discrimination includes, but is not limited to, behaviour based on: • Gender or gender identity
• Race, ethnicity, or nationality
• Religion or belief
• Sexual orientation
• Age
• Disability
• Socioeconomic background

All participants and attendees are expected to uphold the principles of equality, fairness, dignity, and mutual respect at all times.

11. Zero-Tolerance Policy

The London Ladies Cup operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards any form of serious misconduct, including but not limited to discriminatory behaviour.

This includes: • Verbal abuse, offensive language, or discriminatory remarks
• Physical abuse, threats, or intimidation
• Online harassment via social media, messaging apps, or digital platforms
• Exclusionary behaviour or refusal of participation based on discriminatory or other improper grounds

Such behaviour may result in immediate disciplinary action.

12. Reporting and Response Protocol

This reporting and response protocol applies to all serious violations of this Code of Conduct, including but not limited to misconduct, intimidation, aggression, abuse, damage to property, breaches of campus rules, and discriminatory behaviour.

To maintain a safe, respectful, and well-organised tournament environment, the following procedure applies:

1. Immediate reporting
   Any participant, official, volunteer, or spectator who witnesses or experiences a serious violation of this Code of Conduct must report it immediately to a designated tournament official or Safeguarding Officer.
2. Investigation
   All reports will be assessed promptly, confidentially, and impartially by the tournament organisation. The Organising Committee may gather statements, consult officials, and take any necessary steps to establish the facts.
3. Decision and action
   Based on the findings, the tournament organisation will determine and enforce appropriate measures in accordance with this Code of Conduct, the Tournament Rules, and applicable laws.

Violations involving discriminatory behaviour are considered particularly serious and may require immediate action.

Tournament staff and volunteers are trained to respond appropriately and to support individuals affected by any form of misconduct.

13. Damage and Liability

Teams are financially responsible for any damage caused to rooms, boarding houses, furniture, sports facilities, or other campus property by players, staff members, parents, or supporters associated with the team.

14. Sanctions and Enforcement

Any violation of this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action. Sanctions are determined by the tournament organisation and may include, but are not limited to:

• Formal warnings
  • Temporary suspension from matches or tournament activities
  • Removal from the tournament venue or accommodation
  • Exclusion from the tournament
  • Exclusion from future events organised by the London Ladies Cup

The nature and severity of the sanction will depend on the seriousness of the violation, the circumstances, and any prior incidents.

Violations involving discriminatory behaviour, physical abuse, threats, or intimidation will be treated as serious offences and may lead to immediate and severe disciplinary measures.

All decisions made by the tournament organisation are final and binding.

Closing Statement

The London Ladies Cup expects all participants and attendees to contribute actively to a respectful, inclusive, and high-quality tournament environment.

By participating in the tournament, all parties confirm their commitment to this Code of Conduct and to the values it represents.