FIFA Introduces New Red Card Rules to Combat Discrimination and Protests Ahead of 2026 World Cup
FIFA has approved two new red card rules for the 2026 World Cup targeting discriminatory behavior and protests, following incidents involving Brazilian player Vinícius Jr. and the Africa Cup of Nations final.
- • FIFA and IFAB approved two new red card rules for the 2026 World Cup.
- • Players covering their mouths during confrontations will be expelled to combat discrimination.
- • Players or staff leaving the field in protest against referees will also be penalized with red cards.
- • Teams abandoning matches may forfeit the game by walkover based on referee decisions.
Key details
At its annual congress in Vancouver, Canada, FIFA and the International Football Association Board (IFAB) unanimously approved two new rules that will come into effect at the 2026 World Cup, aiming to intensify efforts against discrimination and maintain order during matches.
The first rule mandates an immediate red card for any player who covers their mouth during on-field confrontations. This measure specifically seeks to counter discriminatory behavior and maintain transparency during exchanges between players. The decision was influenced by incidents such as the February clash involving Brazilian forward Vinícius Jr., who accused Argentine player Gianluca Prestianni of racist language after a goal.
The second new regulation penalizes players or team staff who leave the field in protest against refereeing decisions with a red card as well. In cases where the entire team abandons the pitch, the game may be forfeited, with the referee authorized to declare a loss by walkover. This measure draws inspiration from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final, where Senegal left the field protesting a controversial penalty awarded to Morocco. Although Senegal returned to the match and subsequently won, Morocco was later declared the champion.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino highlighted the importance of these rules, stating that they are designed to "protect the integrity of the game and ensure mutual respect continues to govern football." These new guidelines reflect FIFA's commitment to addressing racism and preventing disruptions caused by protests during matches, reinforcing fair play and respect at the highest levels of international football.
These comprehensive changes will be enforced starting with the upcoming 2026 World Cup, signaling a pivotal step in FIFA's ongoing efforts to combat discriminatory acts and manage conduct related to referee decisions on the pitch.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
