When should the final whistle be blown?

The final whistle should be blown at the end of regulation time or when any additional time has expired. This procedure is crucial as it signifies the official end of the match, ensuring that both teams understand the conclusion of play. Regulation time consists of two halves, and if there is any stoppage time added by the referee, which accounts for injuries, substitutions, and other interruptions, the game continues until that additional time has also lapsed.

Blowing the whistle prematurely or at inappropriate moments can lead to confusion and disrupt the integrity of the match. Therefore, it's essential for the referee to maintain clarity regarding when the match is officially over. This aligns with the established rules of the game and maintains fairness for both teams involved.