The International Football Association Board has approved a new rule proposed by FIFA requiring an automatic red card for any player or official who leaves the pitch in protest, marking a shift in disciplinary measures ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The decision, influenced by the controversial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco national football team and Senegal national football team, aims to strengthen referees' authority and curb unsportsmanlike and verbal misconduct. DR ‹ › Players who leave the pitch in protest will now receive an automatic red card under a new rule approved by the International Football Association Board at the request of FIFA, marking a significant shift in disciplinary measures ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The IFAB unanimously approves red card for players covering their mouths to conceal discriminatory behaviour ➡️https://t.co/EEQubmcCVA pic.twitter.com/2MJo2muTvr — The IFAB (@TheIFAB) April 28, 2026 The rule also applies to coaches or officials who instruct players to walk off the field. If such action leads to an interruption of play, the team could additionally forfeit the match. A direct response to the Morocco–Senegal incident The regulatory change follows a high-profile incident during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco national football team and Senegal national football team in Rabat. In the closing minutes, most Senegalese players left the pitch on the orders of their coach, Pape Thiaw, in protest against a penalty awarded to Morocco. The unprecedented move caused a match interruption and sparked a major disciplinary dispute. Although Senegal initially won on the field, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeals Committee later overturned the result, awarding Morocco a 3-0 victory by forfeit. The case is currently under review by the Court of Arbitration for Sport following an appeal by the Senegalese Football Federation. The incident drew global attention and exposed the limits of refereeing authority when faced with collective protests. A dual measure to curb misconduct FIFA's reforms go beyond walk-offs. A second provision introduces an automatic red card for players who cover their mouths during on-field disputes, a gesture often used to conceal insults, including racist or discriminatory remarks. The aim is to increase transparency and crack down on verbal abuse. Many observers see the move as a clear signal of FIFA's intent to regain control over situations deemed «unacceptable».However, the measure has also raised concerns, with some arguing it could penalize players who leave the field to protest serious incidents, particularly racism. By tightening sanctions, FIFA is sending a firm message: protests should not disrupt matches. The new rules reflect a broader effort to reinforce referees' authority, even if it means limiting certain forms of on-field protest.
