According to Spanish outlet Diario AS, world football’s lawmakers have approved a new anti-racism measure that is already being referred to as the “Vinicius Law.”
As reported by the Spanish outlet, the decision was taken during the 140th Annual General Meeting of the International Football Association Board in Hensol, Wales. The measure will prohibit players from covering their mouths with shirts, objects, or even their hands while speaking to opponents during matches. The rule is expected to come into force before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The move follows growing concern within FIFA led by president Gianni Infantino, over racist incidents in recent years. Diario AS notes that the initiative gained urgency after recent scenes involving Vinícius Júnior, who has become a central figure in football’s fight against racism.
The objective of the new rule is to prevent players from concealing potentially abusive or discriminatory language during on-field exchanges. Early indications suggest that a yellow card could serve as the initial sanction, though regulatory details are still being finalized.
🚨 BREAKING: The “Vinícius Law” is underway to fight racism.
IFAB and FIFA will ban players from covering their mouths when speaking to opponents. Set to be approved before the World Cup. @diarioas pic.twitter.com/Xyh0VzU4KZ
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) February 28, 2026
IFAB approves more reforms ahead of 2026 World Cup
Beyond the anti-racism measure, AS reports that IFAB approved several additional changes aimed at improving match flow and strengthening officiating protocols
5-second countdown for restarts
Referees will implement a visible five-second countdown for throw-ins and goal kicks deemed excessively delayed. Failure to restart play in time will result in possession awarded to the opposing team, or a corner kick if a goal kick is delayed.
Stricter substitution and injury protocols
Substituted players must leave the field within 10 seconds. If they fail to do so, the replacement cannot enter until the next stoppage after one minute of play.
Players treated for injuries on the pitch must remain off the field for one minute after play resumes, a measure designed to discourage tactical stoppages.
Expanded VAR authority
IFAB has also broadened the scope of VAR interventions:
- Erroneous second yellow cards can now be reviewed.
- Cases of mistaken identity involving disciplinary sanctions may be corrected.
- VAR will be allowed to intervene in clear corner-kick or goal-kick errors, provided the correction is immediate and does not disrupt the match’s rhythm.
The assembly also confirmed that consultations will continue regarding situations where teams leave the pitch in protest of refereeing decisions.
Read also: Arbeloa Backs Vinícius Ahead of Champions League Second Leg vs Benfica