Multiple outlets report that FIFA has introduced (or emphasized) a disciplinary rule connected to players’ conduct during verbal confrontations. Players are said to have been warned before the tournament that covering a mouth while confronting another player can lead to an immediate red card. The reports describe the rule as applying to situations where a player verbally confronts someone else and then uses their hand or other means to cover their mouth.
The outlets frame the measure as part of FIFA’s approach to controlling on-field behavior and communications, but they focus on the practical consequence: the act triggers the sending-off outcome rather than a lesser sanction. The coverage also indicates that the warning to players was provided in advance, suggesting teams and players are aware of the enforcement before matches. While the reports do not give additional procedural details such as the duration or exact method required to qualify, they consistently state that FIFA’s guidance links mouth-covering during verbal confrontation with a red card.
