Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Rom Preston-Ellis

World Cup players can be sent off for covering their mouths – here’s why

  • Fifa has introduced a new rule for the World Cup, mandating an immediate red card for players who cover their mouths during verbal confrontations.
  • Dubbed the 'Prestianni Law', the rule aims to prevent players from concealing abusive, discriminatory, or offensive language, following a controversy involving Gianluca Prestianni.
  • The International Football Association Board (IFAB) unanimously approved this guideline, granting tournament organisers discretion to implement it.
  • Ecuador defender Piero Hincapié was sent off under this new rule during his team's 2-0 loss to Mexico, underscoring its strict enforcement.
  • Paraguay midfielder Miguel Almirón was the first player to be punished under the regulation , receiving a red card in a group match against Turkey.

IN FULL

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.