Red cards coming for players who cover their mouths

The International Football Association Board has adopted new rules that tighten disciplinary provisions against discriminatory and inappropriate behavior. According to the statement from the board, two separate amendments proposed by FIFA were unanimously enacted during a meeting held in Vancouver, Canada.

According to the new regulation, footballers who cover their mouths to hide discriminatory remarks on the pitch will be punished with a direct red card. Furthermore, players who leave the pitch in reaction to referee decisions, as well as members of the technical staff who encourage such actions, will also be sent off.

It was stated that the rules will also be applied during the 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament to be held this summer.

The changes in question were brought to the agenda following a controversy in European football in recent months. During a match played in the UEFA Champions League round of 16 play-off round, Real Madrid player Vinicius Junior alleged that racist remarks were directed at him by his opponent, Gianluca Prestianni.

Following the incident, the UEFA Disciplinary Committee handed a 6-match ban to Prestianni, who had covered his mouth during the argument and denied the accusations, on the grounds of discriminatory behavior.

News Source: 12punto