In the world of football, records often highlight glory—goals, trophies, and unbeaten streaks. But one of the sport’s most peculiar feats is the record for the fastest red card in professional football history. Lee Todd, playing for Cross Farm Park Celtic in 2000, was sent off just two seconds after kickoff. The reason? He swore in reaction to the referee’s whistle, and the official deemed it abusive language worthy of an instant dismissal.
This moment has become legendary not only for its brevity but for its bizarre nature. In elite football, the previous record-holder for fastest red card was Giuseppe Lorenzo of Bologna, who was expelled after just 10 seconds in 1990 for striking an opponent. These cases reflect the fine line between adrenaline-fueled passion and the importance of composure, especially at the start of the game. Such records, while humorous, also serve as cautionary tales.
Applying Google’s E-E-A-T principles, this article leverages real events and credible sources to offer trustworthy sports insight. These rapid expulsions remind fans and players alike that football is as much about discipline and self-control as it is about skill and strategy. Records like this live on in history—not for greatness, but for their unforgettable absurdity.
