Players who cover their mouths during confrontations at the 2026 FIFA World Cup could be sent off, after the International Football Association Board (Ifab) approved two rule amendments proposed by Fifa at a special meeting in Vancouver, Canada on Tuesday.

The second change targets players who leave the pitch in protest at a referee's decision — a measure introduced following the controversial scenes at the Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal.

The mouth-covering rule

The issue rose to prominence in February when Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni raised his shirt over his mouth while speaking to Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr during a Champions League match. The Argentina international was initially provisionally banned for one match on suspicion of racist abuse. A UEFA investigation later found him guilty of homophobic conduct, resulting in a six-match ban — three of which were suspended.

The incident was discussed at the Ifab annual general meeting in Wales later that month, where members agreed to reconvene ahead of the Fifa Council meeting in Vancouver this week.

Fifa president Gianni Infantino was unambiguous in his support for strong consequences.