By Martin Graham
Footballers at this summer’s World Cup could be sent off if they cover their mouths while speaking during disputes with rivals after lawmakers approved two FIFA-backed rule changes at a special International Football Association Board meeting in Vancouver on Tuesday.
The updated measures, accepted as optional competition rules by IFAB, also target players who walk off the field to challenge refereeing decisions. FIFA has already confirmed both changes will be enforced during the upcoming World Cup.
The move follows growing concern over hidden verbal exchanges during heated incidents, with officials believing concealed speech can make abusive language harder to detect and punish.
Prestianni case pushed mouth-covering issue into the spotlight
Debate over players obscuring their speech intensified in February during a Champions League match when Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni lifted his shirt over his mouth while talking to Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr.
Prestianni, initially suspended for one game amid allegations of racist abuse, was later investigated by UEFA and found guilty of homophobic behaviour instead. He received a six-match suspension, with half of that punishment suspended.
The controversy prompted discussions at IFAB’s annual general meeting in Wales later that month, where members agreed to revisit the matter before the FIFA Council gathering in Canada.
Infantino backs strict punishment as deterrent
FIFA president Gianni Infantino strongly supported the tougher stance, arguing that concealing speech suggests a player may be trying to hide unacceptable remarks.
He said that if someone covers their mouth and their words have racist consequences, dismissal should follow. Infantino added that there should be an assumption inappropriate language was used, otherwise there would be no reason to hide what was being said.
Despite the stronger wording, referees will still hold full authority to judge each incident individually and decide whether a red card is appropriate based on the circumstances.
Walk-off protests also targeted after AFCON final controversy
The second amendment comes after chaotic scenes in the Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal, when Senegal’s players left the field and returned to the dressing room in protest over a penalty awarded to Morocco.
Once the match resumed, Brahim Diaz attempted a Panenka penalty, but goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved it, and Senegal originally secured a 1-0 victory.
However, Caf later overturned the result, stripped Senegal of the title, and handed Morocco a 3-0 win. Under the new rule, players or team officials who encourage a walk-off could face dismissal, while any side responsible for a match being abandoned would generally lose by forfeit.
