FIFA has issued a new rule: players who cover their mouths during arguments or leave the field in protest of referee decisions can be shown a red card.

On April 28, local time, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) unanimously approved two rule amendments proposed by FIFA at a special meeting in Vancouver, Canada. The new rules primarily target discriminatory behavior and misconduct, and will be used for the first time at the 2026 USA-Mexico World Cup.

The official statement also confirmed that the relevant information will be conveyed to the 48 teams participating in the 2026 World Cup in the coming weeks.

This revision, led entirely by FIFA, further refines the penalties for misconduct on the field. Firstly, regarding players covering their mouths during conflicts with opponents, the new rules explicitly grant tournament organizers the authority to issue red cards to offenders.

Another measure addresses players leaving the field in protest of referee decisions. Under the new rules, any player who leaves the field protesting a referee's decision, or any team official who incites players to leave, can be sent off with a straight red card. If this results in the match being forced to stop, the team will, in principle, be automatically forfeited.

Following the adoption of the proposal, FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated on Instagram: "The International Football Association Board (IFAB) made several key decisions at a special meeting in Vancouver, Canada, to uphold the fairness of football and ensure that mutual respect continues to prevail at all levels of football competitions."

"We thank all stakeholders for their time, valuable input, and consensus on this important issue. FIFA led the discussions and consultations on these matters. The new rules will be first implemented at the 2026 USA-Canadian World Cup, and other competition organizers can decide for themselves whether to adopt them before July 1, 2026, when the new rules officially take effect."

Image source: Internet/IFAB official website