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Football could be heading toward a major disciplinary shift after FIFA president Gianni Infantino suggested that players who cover their mouths during on-pitch confrontations should face automatic red cards.
The comments come amid growing concern about players allegedly using offensive or racist language while hiding their speech from cameras.
What Infantino Said
Speaking recently, Infantino argued referees should assume misconduct when a player deliberately covers their mouth during heated exchanges.
“If you do not have something to hide, you don’t hide your mouth when you say something,” Infantino stated.
He added that if such behaviour leads to racist consequences, the player must be sent off.
The Incident That Sparked Debate
The issue gained fresh attention following the Champions League clash between SL Benfica and Real Madrid.
During the match:
Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni covered his mouth while speaking
The exchange involved Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior
UEFA has since issued Prestianni a provisional one-match ban
The Argentine has denied any racist language
A full investigation is still ongoing, meaning further punishment could follow.
IFAB Discussing Possible Rule Changes
The matter was formally discussed at the annual meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB) in Wales.
Key takeaway:
Football authorities want stronger tools
Consultations will explore ways to stop players hiding speech
Any future rule could have a strong deterrent effect
Why This Matters
If implemented, Infantino’s proposal could:
Increase red cards in heated matches
Change how players communicate on the pitch
Strengthen football’s anti-racism stance
Spark debate about presumption vs proof
Critics may argue that automatically assuming guilt could be controversial, but supporters believe stronger action is needed to protect players and the integrity of the game.
