FIFA Introduces Red Card Penalty for Players Covering Mouths During Confrontations at World Cup
FIFA introduces a red card rule for players covering mouths during confrontations to combat racism.
FIFA has announced new disciplinary measures for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including the possibility of red cards for players who cover their mouths during confrontations with opponents. The rule forms part of a wider anti-racism initiative approved following a meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB), as football authorities seek stronger tools to address abusive conduct on the field.
Under the updated guidance, competition organisers may allow referees to dismiss players who cover their mouths while arguing or speaking aggressively to opponents. FIFA said the measure is intended to discourage hidden verbal abuse, particularly racist remarks that are difficult for match officials, cameras or lip-readers to detect during heated moments in games.
The change follows controversy earlier this year involving Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni and Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior during a UEFA Champions League match. Prestianni was accused of racially abusing Vinicius while covering his mouth, though he denied the allegation. He was later handed a six-match suspension, with part of the punishment suspended, for separate homophobic conduct.
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FIFA president Gianni Infantino had previously voiced support for stricter enforcement, arguing that players who hide their mouths while speaking in confrontations raise suspicion about their intent. His comments signalled FIFA’s willingness to treat concealed verbal exchanges more seriously, especially in cases where discriminatory language may be involved.
A second rule change for the World Cup will target protests against refereeing decisions. Players who leave the field of play in protest may now also face red cards, while team officials who encourage such walkouts can be sanctioned. FIFA added that any team responsible for causing a match abandonment would forfeit the game.
The move comes after controversy at the Africa Cup of Nations final, where Senegal players and staff briefly walked off following a late penalty awarded to Morocco. FIFA delegates approved the changes in Vancouver ahead of the upcoming FIFA Congress. With the World Cup set to begin in June across Canada, Mexico and the United States, the governing body is aiming to reinforce discipline and zero tolerance for abuse.
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