World Cup Gets New Rule Against Mouth-Covering
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has approved a new rule that allows referees to issue red cards to players who cover their mouths during confrontations with opponents. The change, proposed by FIFA after an incident involving Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior, will be enforced at the upcoming World Cup. IFAB also introduced a red card sanction for players or officials who leave or incite others to leave the field in protest of a referee's decision. The rules were unanimously adopted and will be communicated to all 48 participating teams.
- ▪The new rule permits a red card for players who cover their mouths during verbal confrontations with opponents.
- ▪FIFA proposed the rule after Vinícius Júnior accused Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni of a racially and homophobic insult during a Champions League match.
- ▪Prestianni received a six-game ban from UEFA, which could affect his availability for Argentina in the World Cup.
- ▪Players or team officials who leave or encourage others to leave the field in protest of a referee's decision can also receive a red card.
- ▪The rule changes were approved unanimously by IFAB and will be implemented at the 2026 World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
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