FIFA to Issue Red Cards for Players Hiding Their Mouths in Racism Disputes

FIFA has approved two new red-card rules for this year’s World Cup aimed at curbing abusive behaviour. Under the first rule, any player who covers their mouth during a confrontation may be sent off if the organiser believes they were hiding racist or abusive remarks. This follows the controversy over alleged racist abuse of Vinicius Junior earlier this year. A second change allows referees to red-card players or team officials who leave the field in protest at a decision. Teams that abandon matches will forfeit the game. FIFA President Gianni Infantino said these measures send a clear message that hiding behind a hand or walking off in protest will no longer be tolerated.

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