FIFA president Gianni Infantino has proposed sending off players who cover their mouths during on-pitch confrontations, arguing this behavior should be presumed offensive. The rule change comes amid heightened scrutiny following allegations of racial abuse against Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior during a Champions League match against Benfica. Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni faces investigation after allegedly covering his mouth while confronting Vinicius.

Infantino revealed plans to reform disciplinary procedures, suggesting reduced bans for players who apologize for discriminatory behavior. The FIFA chief criticized football's tendency to deflect racism as merely a societal problem, demanding the sport take direct responsibility. He emphasized that players who hide their mouths while speaking are likely concealing inappropriate comments, stating that such actions warrant immediate dismissal from matches.

The proposed changes could be implemented by April through the International Football Association Board, potentially affecting the upcoming World Cup. Infantino stressed the need for decisive action with deterrent effects, while also considering cultural shifts that might allow apologies to influence sanctions. The FIFA president concluded that football must stop making excuses and actively combat racism both on and off the field.