FIFA and the International Football Association Board (IFAB) have announced new rules that allow referees to send off players at this summer's World Cup. Under these measures, players who cover their mouths during confrontations with opponents could receive a red card.
These anti-racism measures were approved by IFAB. Gianni Infantino stated that players who cover their mouths when speaking to opponents during such confrontations should be sent off.
Additionally, the new regulations extend to player conduct toward officials. Players who leave the field or walk off the pitch in protest of a referee's decision may also be red-carded.