Which action should a referee take if a player is suspected of committing a serious foul?

When a player is suspected of committing a serious foul, the correct action for a referee to take is to show a red card immediately. Serious fouls include actions such as violent conduct, using excessive force, or a foul that endangers the safety of another player. These types of fouls are serious enough to warrant immediate ejection from the game to ensure the safety of all players on the field.

By showing a red card, the referee enforces the rules of the game, sends a clear message about the seriousness of the foul, and helps maintain order during the match. This decision contributes to the integrity of the sport and protects players from potential long-term injury as a result of violent play.

Other options, such as ignoring the foul or simply issuing a warning or yellow card, do not adequately address the potential severity of the situation or prioritize player safety. A yellow card is generally reserved for less severe infractions and does not convey the seriousness of a foul that poses a significant risk to players.