FIFA is considering a crackdown on “covert insults” on the pitch. Players could face sanctions in the future if they cover their mouths while speaking to opponents, according to the Press Association.
Benfica’s Djanluca Prestianni is currently under investigation regarding an alleged racial slur directed at Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior during a Champions League match last week. The specifics of what Prestianni said to Vinícius are disputed, with Prestianni vehemently denying the use of racist language. The incident occurred while Prestianni had his mouth covered as he spoke to Vinícius.
Following the match, Vinícius posted on Instagram in Portuguese: “Racists are, above all, cowards. They need to position their shirts in their mouths to show how weak they are.”
FIFA is eager to explore ways to address the issue and raised the idea of introducing a deterrent against such behavior at a meeting on February 23, 2026, ahead of the International Football Association Board’s (IFAB) annual general meeting in Wales today, February 24, 2026. The Champions League clash between Benfica and Real Madrid highlighted the growing concern over discriminatory behavior in the sport.
According to a source within the organization, the rule would be dubbed the “Vinícius Law.” The British associations that comprise IFAB, along with FIFA, are receptive to the idea, though, as discussions are still in the early stages, the practical aspects of its implementation will require careful consideration.
This is just the beginning of the discussion, and no formal proposal to address the issue is expected to be put forward immediately.
FIFA is also reportedly considering increasing the punishment for players leaving the field from a yellow card to a red card, following the chaos at the complete of the Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco.
