Here is the latest update from the ongoing FIFA World Cup as of 2026-07-03 03:57:00.
Players will not face ejection for covering their mouths while speaking to opponents in UEFA competitions, as confirmed by the governing body. UEFA has opted not to implement this law in the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League for the upcoming season.
A recent UEFA statement indicated that referees could interpret covering the mouth to hide communication as unsportsmanlike conduct, which may result in a yellow card. The statement added, “This is obviously without prejudice to any disciplinary investigation or proceedings that may follow as a consequence of or in connection with such behaviour.”
FIFA president Gianni Infantino advocated for rule changes during the FIFA World Cup 2026, suggesting that players should receive a straight red card for covering their mouth with their hand while addressing a rival. Notably, Paraguay’s Miguel Almirón became the first player sent off for this offense during the World Cup, with Ecuador’s Piero Hincapié also receiving a red card for similar conduct.
In contrast, England’s Jude Bellingham avoided a red card despite appearing to cover his mouth against Ghana, as sources noted it was not in a confrontational manner. The controversy regarding players hiding their conversations gained significant attention during a Champions League match where Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni raised his shirt while speaking to Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior. This incident led to the Madrid winger accusing Prestianni of racist abuse, ultimately resulting in a six-match ban for the latter due to findings of anti-gay conduct after a UEFA investigation.
Despite the high-profile cases related to mouth-covering in UEFA’s premier competition, the governing body has opted against adopting FIFA’s ruling for the World Cup. UEFA also declared they would not implement a red card for players leaving the field in protest. However, they will adopt a new rule allowing VAR to review incorrect corner decisions, a practice already in use during the World Cup.
FAQs
Will players be sent off for covering their mouths in UEFA games?
No, players will not be sent off but may receive a yellow card for such actions.
What rule changes did FIFA propose for the World Cup?
FIFA proposed that players covering their mouths receive a straight red card during matches.
Quick Facts
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- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-07-03 03:57:00
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Tags: #UEFA #wont #send #players #cover #mouth #addressing #opponent
Tags: #UEFA #wont #send #players #cover #mouth #addressing #opponent
