FIFA has approved new rules that could see players receive red cards for covering their mouths during confrontations or leaving the pitch in protest. These amendments, approved during a special meeting in Vancouver, Canada, were prompted by recent controversial incidents. FIFA confirmed the changes will be implemented at this summer's World Cup as competition opt-ins by IFAB.

The mouth-covering rule follows an incident where Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni was accused of racist abuse after covering his mouth while speaking to Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr. After investigation, Prestianni received a six-match suspension for homophobic conduct. Meanwhile, Senegal's protest during the Africa Cup final led to them being stripped of their title and awarded a 3-0 defeat to Morocco.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino strongly supports the red card for mouth covering, stating it creates a "deterrent effect" and implies guilt when players hide their mouths. The decision rests with referees who must consider all circumstances. Team officials inciting protests will also face sanctions, with teams risking match forfeiture for abandoning games.