FIFA has announced new disciplinary rules for the upcoming World Cup that will allow referees to issue red cards to players who cover their mouths during confrontations or leave the pitch in protest, as part of efforts to combat racism and improve transparency on the field.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB), which oversees the Laws of the Game, approved the changes following FIFA-led consultations and a special meeting in Vancouver, Canada.
Under the new regulation, any player who covers their mouth during a confrontation with an opponent may be shown a red card at the discretion of the competition organisers. The rule is aimed at preventing players from hiding discriminatory or abusive language during on-field disputes.
A second major change also allows referees to send off players or team officials who leave the field in protest at a referee’s decision. Teams that cause a match to be abandoned could, in principle, forfeit the game under the updated rules.
FIFA says the measures are designed to strengthen its anti-racism campaign and ensure greater accountability in player behaviour during matches at the global tournament.
The rules are expected to be enforced specifically at the 2026 World Cup, with adoption in other competitions left to individual organisers.
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