UEFA has confirmed that players who cover their mouths while confronting opponents will not automatically receive red cards in its competitions, opting against adopting the recently introduced law for the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League.
The decision means European football’s governing body will not implement the optional rule approved earlier this year by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), despite its use at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The issue gained widespread attention in February during a Champions League match between Benfica and Real Madrid when Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni raised his shirt to cover his mouth while speaking to Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr.
The Argentine was initially accused of racist abuse and provisionally suspended for one match. However, following a UEFA investigation, Prestianni was found guilty of homophobic conduct and handed a six-match suspension, with three matches suspended.
The law allowing referees to issue red cards for players who deliberately cover their mouths during confrontations was championed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who argued it would have “a deterrent effect” during the World Cup. The proposal was approved by IFAB in April.
