FIFA is introducing strict new disciplinary measures ahead of the 2026 World Cupincluding straight red cards for players who cover their mouths during on-pitch confrontations and instant dismissals for those who leave the field in protest at a referee’s decision, as reported by The Times.
The changes, aimed at improving transparency, reducing hidden abuse, and curbing dissent, are expected to be fully implemented in time for the tournament co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Why FIFA Is Cracking Down on Mouth Covering
Covering the mouth with a hand while arguing with opponents has become a common tactic in modern football. Players often do it to prevent lip-readers, broadcasters, and officials from understanding what is being said.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has been vocal about the issue, particularly in the context of tackling racism and discriminatory language on the pitch.
“If a player covers his mouth and says something, and this has a racist consequence, then he has to be sent off, obviously. There must be a presumption that he has said something he shouldn’t have said, otherwise he wouldn’t have had to cover his mouth.” — Gianni Infantino
The new rule will treat mouth-covering during confrontations with a presumption of guiltmaking it a sending-off offence (straight red card). This move has been fast-tracked following high-profile incidents involving alleged racist abuse, including cases linked to players like Vinícius Júnior.
The goal is clear: make on-pitch communication more transparent and deter abusive or discriminatory language that cannot be easily detected.
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