US EditionIFAB Agrees Red-Card Sanction for Players Covering Mouths During Verbal ...
IFAB said referees may send off players for concealed messages or protest walk-offs, with the new rules set for this year’s World Cup.
- On Tuesday, the International Football Association Board announced that players covering their mouths during confrontations or walking off in protest face immediate red cards at this summer's World Cup.
- These sanctions follow the Champions League incident where Gianluca Prestianni covered his mouth, and the Africa Cup of Nations final in January when Senegal players walked off the pitch in protest.
- Team officials inciting players to leave the field will also face dismissal under the new regulations, and any team causing a match to be abandoned will forfeit the contest.
- FIFA president Gianni Infantino recommended these measures following thorough consultations with stakeholders, having stated in February that players covering mouths should be sent off.
- Competition organisers hold discretion to enforce these red card sanctions, which align with ongoing efforts to curb discriminatory conduct across international football competitions.
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On the football field, there is a lot of puffing around. Many professionals cover their mouths in order not to be noticed by referees and cameras. During the World Cup, a stricter rule now applies.
The Toronto Star
Red cards can be given to players who cover their mouths while confronting opponents
VANCOUVER, British Columbia (AP) — The International Football Association Board approved a new rule that would penalize players with a red card if they cover their mouths when verbally confronting another player.
IFAB unanimously approved new sanctions that include red cards for players who cover their mouths in confrontations or leave the field in protest. These amendments seek to eradicate discriminatory behaviors and ensure arbitral respect for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
FIFA introduces new World Cup red-card rules to combat racism
FIFA announced on Tuesday that players who cover their mouths during confrontations with opponents could be sent off at this year's World Cup under new anti-racism measures, while walking off the pitch in protest at refereeing decisions may also result in red cards.
In addition, a rule tightening is introduced when players leave the square for protest
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