After AFCON controversy.. FIFA approves new red card rules for walk-off protests

FIFA has officially announced that the International Football Association Board (IFAB) unanimously approved major new disciplinary amendments aimed at strengthening football’s response to discriminatory behavior and on-field protests.

According to FIFA’s official statement, players who cover their mouths to conceal discriminatory, abusive, or inappropriate language will now face an immediate red card.

In addition, IFAB approved automatic dismissals for:

• Any player who leaves the field in protest against the referee
• Any team official who encourages or incites players to abandon the match

FIFA confirmed that all 48 national teams participating in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup will be formally informed of these rule changes in the coming weeks.

These amendments come amid controversial incidents in recent football competitions.

During the recent Africa Cup of Nations final, Senegal players temporarily walked off the pitch in protest after a late penalty was awarded to Morocco. Although Senegal eventually returned, completed the match, won 1-0, and lifted the trophy, the CAF Appeals Committee later ruled Morocco 3-0 winners on the basis that Senegal’s temporary withdrawal constituted an official forfeiture.

A separate controversy also emerged in the UEFA Champions League this season during the clash between Real Madrid CF and SL Benfica, where Vinícius Júnior alleged racist abuse from Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni after the latter was seen covering his mouth.

The new IFAB regulations are designed to eliminate ambiguity in such situations and reinforce zero tolerance for discriminatory actions, misconduct, and unsporting protests on the global stage.

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