FIFA is rolling out a new rule targeting racism on the pitch ahead of the 2026 World Cup: players who cover their mouths during confrontations with opponents will face a red card.
The new rule follows a controversy earlier this year when Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni was accused of racially abusing Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior while covering his mouth during a Champions League game in February. Prestianni was later banned for six matches.
A second new rule sanctions players who leave the field in protest at a referee's decision
