Miguel Almiron has made history at the 2026 World Cup — for reasons he would rather forget. The Paraguay midfielder became the first player ever to receive a red card under the tournament's new rule prohibiting players from covering their mouths during matches.

The incident occurred during Paraguay's group-stage encounter against Turkey, which Paraguay went on to win. Almiron was shown red after he covered his mouth — a gesture referees at this World Cup have been instructed to punish as a means of preventing on-field communication from being hidden from officials and broadcasters.

The rule explained

FIFA introduced the mouth-covering ban ahead of the 2026 World Cup in an effort to promote transparency on the pitch. Players who shield their mouths while speaking are deemed to be deliberately concealing tactical or other communication, and referees have been empowered to issue red cards for the offence.

Almiron's dismissal is the first time the rule has been applied at the tournament, marking a significant moment in the competition's officiating history. The sanction drew widespread attention given both the novelty of the regulation and the profile of the player involved.

Paraguay's win over Turkey

Despite finishing the match with ten men, Paraguay secured the victory against Turkey. The result will be seen as a positive outcome for the South American side, even as the red card leaves Almiron facing a suspension that could affect his availability in subsequent matches.

The Almiron sending-off is certain to fuel debate around FIFA's new regulations and whether such a strict application of the rule is proportionate — a conversation that looks set to continue as the 2026 World Cup progresses.