The International Football Association Board has approved a new disciplinary guideline that could lead to players being sent off for covering their mouths during on-field confrontations.

The decision was reached unanimously at a special meeting in Vancouver following consultations led by FIFA with key stakeholders across the sport. Under the new measure, competition organisers will have the authority to impose sanctions—including red cards—on players who intentionally conceal their speech during heated exchanges.

The initiative is designed to curb inappropriate conduct such as abusive or discriminatory language, which can be difficult to detect when players shield their mouths. Football authorities believe the rule will enhance transparency and accountability during player interactions.

The amendment builds on earlier discussions at IFAB’s Annual General Meeting in February, where concerns were raised about the growing use of such gestures to evade scrutiny.

If adopted, referees will be empowered to take action based on the severity of incidents, while competition organisers will decide whether to implement the rule in specific tournaments.

The regulation is expected to come into effect ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with all 48 participating teams to be briefed in the coming weeks. The move signals a notable shift in how on-field behaviour is monitored and disciplined at the highest level.