IFAB: Players who cover mouths to hide discriminatory abuse face red cards

Tougher Measures Against Discriminatory Abuse

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has confirmed that players who cover their mouths in confrontations with opponents will be shown red cards starting at the World Cup. This decision comes in the wake of a high-profile incident between Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr and Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni, after the latter was handed a six-game ban for anti-gay conduct directed towards the Brazilian.

New Rules to Curb Abuse in Football

Red cards will be issued towards players who cover their mouths to conceal suspected discriminatory language, in a significant movement to curtail abuse in football. Referees will also have the power to send off players who leave the pitch in protest - a decision that seems to come following Senegal's dramatic decision to walk off following the controversial awarding of a penalty to Morocco in the AFCON final.

• Players covering mouths to conceal discriminatory language will face red cards.
• Referees can send off players who leave the pitch in protest.

Preventing Future Incidents

The IFAB's decision aims to prevent future incidents of discriminatory abuse in football.

Players who cover their mouths to conceal suspected discriminatory language will be shown red cards.