In 2003, the FIFA Executive Committee approved an addition to FIFA's Fair Play strategy and pledged to encourage greater efforts to boost fair play within the game.

A crucial part of this pledge was the decision to introduce handshakes not only before kick-off but also at the end of each match. The executive resolved to incorporate this gesture at all FIFA final tournaments with immediate effect.

The objectives of the post-match handshake are:

  • To provide an appropriate and dignified end to the match, thus bringing the match full circle - opening procedure/closing procedure.
  • To guarantee an "official" end to the proceedings through a gesture that shows mutual respect and one that is in the true spirit of the game.
  • To have the possibility of teams and match officials leaving the pitch more or less "together".
  • To ensure players send a correct signal to the fans: "Despite a hard battle, emotions, disappointment or frustration, look, we are still friends, We are thanking our opponents and the match officials for a good game and have accepted the result. So, stay calm, and remember that no matter what is at stake in a match, it is ultimately only a game to be contested in accordance with the Laws of the Game and not to be dwelled upon once it reaches its conclusion and we leave the pitch."
  • To ensure that this two-minute procedure has the side effect of "cooling" heated tempers prior to television interviews, which take place immediately after the end of the match.

The procedure for post-match handshake:

1. Final whistle.
2. The match officials meet in the centre circle.
3. They signal for the teams to join them in the centre circle.
4. The captains of the two teams are responsible for ensuring that each player comes and lines up behind their team captain.
5. The two captains begin the handshake procedure, with the teams following as in the procedure before the match. The players do not have to be in a set position in the line-up. Each player should also shake hands with the match officials.
6. After the handshakes, the players wave to the fans and leave the pitch together with the match officials.

This procedure is being implemented at all FIFA final tournaments and, at the same time, all member associations and confederations have been encouraged to introduce this gesture at the national and continental levels.