Rabat – FIFA has introduced a new regulation allowing referees to issue red cards to players who leave the pitch in protest. The rule will be enforced at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following the chaotic scene in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.
The change was confirmed on April 28 after a special meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB) in Vancouver.
FIFA said the amendments were unanimously approved to protect the match integrity and curb misconduct.
“The referee may sanction with a red card any player who leaves the field of play in protest at a referee’s decision,” according to the official release. The rule also applies to team officials who encourage players to walk off.
AFCON 2025 chaos as catalyst
The move comes after the controversial AFCON final in Rabat on January 18. Senegal players shamefully left the pitch for more than 15 minutes after Morocco were awarded a late penalty.
Although Senegal returned and won 1-0 in extra time, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) later ruled that leaving the field amounted to abandonment. On March 17, Morocco were awarded a 3–0 victory.
FIFA described the incident as “unacceptable,” warning that such protests damage the image of the game.
Under the updated rules, referees can immediately dismiss players for protest walk‑offs. Teams that cause matches to be abandoned will forfeit the game.
Another amendment targets players who cover their mouths during disputes; if officials believe it conceals discriminatory language, a red card may be issued.
NEW FIFA RULES?
FIFA set to introduce STRICT new rules starting from the World Cup
❌ Any player covering their mouth while speaking to an opponent = RED CARD
❌ Any player 🇸🇳 leaving the pitch in protest of a referee decision = RED CARDGame-changing regulations… if… pic.twitter.com/pNYshZeQc3
— AlmarssadPro (@ProsMarocains) April 28, 2026
“These decisions follow thorough FIFA‑led consultations with all key stakeholders,” the statement said.
Impact on World Cup 2026
The new rules will be applied at the expanded 48‑team World Cup, which begins on June 11.
All participating squads will be briefed ahead of the tournament. FIFA believes stricter enforcement will deter protests and reinforce respect for referees.
Senegal, meanwhile, has confirmed plans to appeal CAF’s ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), keeping the AFCON controversy alive.
The changes mark one of the most significant disciplinary updates in recent years. For FIFA, walk‑offs and disruptive protests will no longer be tolerated, and referees now have the authority to act immediately.
Read also: Legal Expert Defends CAF’s Decision to Award Morocco AFCON 2025 Title