By Martin Graham
Soccer players at this summer’s World Cup could be sent off if they cover their mouths while talking during scrimmages with opponents after lawmakers approved two FIFA-backed rule changes at a special meeting of the International Football Association Board in Vancouver on Tuesday.
The updated measures, accepted as optional competition rules by the IFAB, also target players leaving the field to challenge refereeing decisions. FIFA has already confirmed that both changes will be implemented during the next World Cup.
The move follows growing concern about hidden verbal exchanges during heated incidents, with officials believing hidden speech can make abusive language harder to detect and punish.
The Prestianni case put the problem of covering the mouth in the spotlight
The debate over players covering up their speech intensified in February during a Champions League match when Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni lifted his shirt over his mouth while speaking to Real Madrid. Vinicius Jr.
Prestianni, initially suspended for one match amid allegations of racist abuse, was later investigated by UEFA and found guilty of homophobic behaviour. He received a six-match ban, with half of that punishment suspended.
The controversy sparked discussions at IFAB’s annual general meeting in Wales later this month, where members agreed to review the matter ahead of the FIFA Council meeting in Canada.
Infantino supports strict punishment as a deterrent
FIFA president Gianni Infantino strongly backed the tougher stance, arguing that concealing speech suggests a player may be trying to hide unacceptable comments.
He said that if someone covers their mouth and their words have racist consequences, the firing should follow. Infantino added that it should be assumed that inappropriate language was used, otherwise there would be no reason to hide what is being said.
Despite the stronger wording, referees will still have full authority to judge each incident individually and decide whether a red card is appropriate based on the circumstances.
Exit protests were also directed after the AFCON final controversy
The second amendment comes after chaotic scenes at 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 at a penalty awarded to Morocco.
After the game resumed, Brahim Diaz attempted a penalty from Panenka, but goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved it and Senegal initially secured a 1-0 victory.
However, Caf later overturned the result, stripping Senegal of the title and awarding Morocco a 3–0 victory. Under the new rule, players or team officials who encourage the walkout could face dismissal, while any team responsible for the walkout would generally forfeit by forfeit.
