IFAB Approves Red Card for Players Covering Mouths During Confrontations; Rule Set for 2026 World Cup

IFAB Approves Sweeping Rule Changes, Including Red Cards for Mouth Covering

VANCOUVER, British Columbia – The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has unanimously approved a series of rule amendments, including a controversial provision allowing referees to issue red cards to players who cover their mouths during verbal confrontations. The changes are set to debut at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

According to IFAB's official announcement, the new regulation states:

"At the discretion of the competition organiser, any player covering their mouth in a confrontational situation with an opponent may be sanctioned with a red card."

FIFA President Gianni Infantino advocated for the measure, arguing that covering one's mouth implies an attempt to hide inappropriate communication. He reportedly stated that if a player covers their mouth while speaking to an opponent, referees should operate under the presumption that offensive language has been used.

The proposal follows a February UEFA Champions League match between Real Madrid and Benfica. Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni was accused by Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior of making a racially charged insult while covering his mouth during a confrontation. Prestianni denies the allegation.

UEFA subsequently banned Prestianni for six games for what it described as homophobic verbal abuse. The governing body had initially issued a provisional one-match ban. A full investigation by an ethics and disciplinary inspector is ongoing, with the possibility of further action.

IFAB also approved a rule stipulating that players who leave the field of play in protest of a referee's decision can receive a red card. This sanction also applies to team officials who encourage players to leave the field.

The amendments will be communicated to all 48 teams participating in the 2026 World Cup. IFAB has agreed to further consultation on developing measures specifically aimed at preventing players from concealing what they might be saying to opponents.