The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has unanimously approved new rules that allow referees to issue red cards to players who cover their mouths during confrontations with opponents. The decision, made during a special meeting in Vancouver, Canada, will take effect at this year's World Cup, set to begin on June 11. The rule change follows FIFA-led consultations with key stakeholders and was first proposed at IFAB's Annual General Meeting in February.
Core Facts
The new rule states that referees may sanction players with a red card if they cover their mouths in a confrontational situation with an opponent. Additionally, players who leave the field in protest of a referee's decision, as well as team officials who encourage such actions, may also face red cards. The amendments will be communicated to all 48 teams participating in the World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Context and Background
The rule change was prompted by an incident during a Champions League match between Real Madrid and Benfica in February 2026. Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior accused Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni of making racially charged insults while covering his mouth with his shirt. The referee activated UEFA's anti-discrimination protocol, halting the match. Prestianni, who denied the accusation, was later handed a six-match suspension by UEFA for discriminatory conduct deemed homophobic. FIFA president Gianni Infantino had previously stated that players covering their mouths during confrontations should be sent off.
Implementation and Impact
The rule will be implemented at the discretion of competition organizers, allowing referees to assess whether a player's actions warrant a red card based on the circumstances. The decision aims to curb incidents of verbal abuse and discrimination on the field. The rule also addresses farcical scenes from past tournaments where players left the field in protest, ensuring referees have the authority to maintain order.
Broader Implications
The new rule is part of a broader effort to enhance fairness and respect in soccer. It follows other recent measures, such as stricter penalties for discriminatory behavior and the introduction of semi-automated offside technology. The rule change is expected to influence how players and officials interact during matches, potentially reducing incidents of verbal abuse and on-field protests.