Nyon: UEFA has confirmed that the rule against issuing red cards for covering one's mouth during matches, which will be implemented in the 2026 World Cup, will not be applied in European competitions next season.

According to Thai News Agency, the rule was originally conceived by the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) as a measure to combat racism in football. FIFA proposed the rule in hopes of discouraging players from engaging in inappropriate communication, and it was subsequently approved by the International Association Board (IFAB) for use in the World Cup. However, UEFA has decided to assess such incidents on an individual basis, focusing on whether there is an intention to conceal communication that violates the principles of the sport.

UEFA's decision not to enforce the rule aligns with its stance on maintaining the integrity of the game by considering the context of each situation rather than implementing a blanket rule. This approach highlights UEFA's commitment to fair play while acknowledging the complexities of player interactions on the field.