FIFA World Cup 2026 Applies New Rule on Covering Mouth in Player Confrontations
At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Paraguay's Miguel Almiron became the first player to receive a red card for covering his mouth during a confrontational exchange, resulting in a one-match suspension. This new rule aims to prevent players from disguising offensive language. In contrast, England's Jude Bellingham was not penalized for covering his mouth while speaking to Ghana's Jordan Ayew, as their interaction was deemed friendly. FIFA clarified that covering the mouth is only punishable during hostile exchanges.