Bandeirinhas are small flags used in various sports, particularly in soccer, to signal specific actions during a game. They are typically held by assistant referees, who use them to indicate offside calls, fouls, or when the ball has gone out of play. The flags are often brightly colored to ensure visibility on the field. In addition to soccer, bandeirinhas can also be found in other sports like American football and rugby, where officials use them to communicate decisions to players and spectators. Their primary purpose is to enhance the clarity of officiating and maintain the flow of the game.