At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, players could face a red card if they cover their faces while speaking to opponents during on-field confrontations, under new disciplinary measures approved by the International Football Association Board (IFAB).
The decision was taken at a special IFAB meeting held in Vancouver, Canada, on Tuesday, where two proposed regulations from FIFA were formally endorsed. The measures also include the possibility of a red card for players who leave the pitch in protest against a referee’s decision.
The new rules were introduced following disciplinary concerns highlighted after an incident on 18 January during the Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal. According to the decision-making bodies, the changes are aimed at addressing disruptive conduct and maintaining order on the pitch.
IFAB has stated that both rules may initially be tested in controlled conditions. However, FIFA has confirmed that they will be implemented at the 2026 World Cup, which begins on 11 June and will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The issue of players covering their faces during on-field communication gained wider attention in February during a Champions League play-off match. During the first leg involving Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior and Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni, the latter was seen covering his mouth with his shirt while speaking.
Following the incident, allegations of discriminatory conduct were raised against the Argentine player. He was initially handed a one-match suspension. UEFA’s subsequent investigation found Prestianni guilty of homophobic behaviour, resulting in a six-match ban, of which three matches were suspended.
Further discussions on disciplinary reforms took place at IFAB’s annual general meeting in Wales at the end of the previous month. Members agreed to revisit the proposals before the FIFA Council meeting in Vancouver.
Under the new framework, the authority to issue a red card remains entirely with the match referee. Decisions will depend on the referee’s assessment of the overall match situation and context.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has supported the introduction of what he described as a “preventive effect” in football regulations. He said the aim is to discourage misconduct before it escalates.
Infantino stated that if a player covers his face while speaking and the communication results in discriminatory behaviour, the player must be sent off. He added that such actions suggest intent to conceal remarks that should not be made openly, arguing that transparency is expected on the field.
The new disciplinary measures will also extend to team officials. Staff members who encourage players to leave the field or protest collectively may also face sanctions. Additionally, if a team’s actions lead to a match being abandoned, they may forfeit the fixture and be recorded as having lost by walkover.
Summary of New Measures
| Area | Regulation | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Face covering during disputes | May result in red card if deemed improper | Referee discretion |
| Leaving pitch in protest | Red card for abandoning match | Subject to match control |
| Team officials’ conduct | Sanctions for incitement | Applies to coaching staff |
| Match abandonment | Forfeit (walkover loss) | Team held responsible |
The reforms represent a broader effort by football’s governing bodies to strengthen discipline and regulate player and staff behaviour in high-pressure match situations, ahead of the expanded 2026 World Cup format.