New Rule Proposed to Tackle Racism

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has suggested that players who cover their mouths while communicating with opponents could face immediate red cards. This proposal comes in response to growing concerns about racism in football, particularly following recent allegations involving Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior and Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni.

Incident Sparking the Change

The issue gained prominence after Vinícius Júnior alleged racial abuse from Gianluca Prestianni during a Champions League playoff match. Prestianni reportedly covered his mouth during the alleged incident. Prestianni has been provisionally suspended by UEFA pending a formal investigation, and could face a ban of up to 10 matches if found guilty.

Infantino’s Stance

“If a player covers his mouth and says something, and this has a racist consequence, then he has to be sent off, obviously,”

Gianni Infantino, FIFA President

Infantino emphasized that covering the mouth implies the player is saying something inappropriate. He stated there should be a presumption that he has said something he shouldn’t have said, otherwise he wouldn’t have had to cover his mouth. He added, I simply do not understand – if you don’t have something to hide, you don’t hide your mouth when you say something. That’s it, as simple as that.

IFAB Discussion and 2026 World Cup Implications

The potential rule change was discussed at a meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB) on Saturday. FIFA is aiming to implement measures before the 2026 World Cup to prevent players from concealing their mouths during confrontations. Mark Bullingham, English FA CEO and IFAB member, noted that covering the mouth is rarely necessary during normal on-field interactions.

Focus on Apology and Cultural Shift

Infantino also suggested exploring the possibility of different punishments for racist abuse depending on whether the offending player offers a public apology. He believes a shift in culture is needed, allowing for apologies while still addressing the issue seriously.

“Maybe we should also think about not just punishing, but also somehow allowing, changing our culture, allowing players or whoever does something to apologise.”

Gianni Infantino, FIFA President

FAQ

What is the proposed new rule?

FIFA is considering issuing red cards to players who cover their mouths while speaking to opponents, with the presumption that they are saying something inappropriate.

What prompted this rule change?

The proposal was sparked by allegations of racial abuse against Vinícius Júnior by Gianluca Prestianni, where Prestianni allegedly covered his mouth during the incident.

When could this rule be implemented?

FIFA aims to have measures in place before the 2026 World Cup.