A former Premier League star has made World Cup history after becoming the first player to receive a red card for covering his mouth during a confrontation. Miguel Almiron, who enjoyed a prolific scoring run for Newcastle United in the 2022/23 season, was dismissed while playing for Paraguay against Turkey in the 2026 World Cup.
New Rule Implemented
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) ratified the rule change in late April, allowing competition organisers to sanction players who cover their mouths in confrontational situations with opponents. FIFA implemented the amendment at the 2026 World Cup to curb discriminatory or inappropriate behaviour.
The Incident
Almiron covered his mouth while speaking to Turkey defender Mert Muldur in the second minute of added time. After a VAR review, the referee issued a red card, triggering a brief scuffle. Tensions escalated again at half-time, with players and staff clashing on the pitch.
Almiron is expected to be suspended for Paraguay's final group game against Australia. Despite the dismissal, Paraguay won 1-0 thanks to Matias Galarza's early goal.
Background to the Rule
The rule change was prompted by an incident involving Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni, who was accused of racially abusing Vinicius Junior while covering his mouth. Prestianni was found guilty of homophobic conduct and received a six-match ban.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino stated: "If a player covers his mouth and says something, and this has a racist consequence, then he has to be sent off, obviously." He confirmed the rule would be implemented at the 2026 World Cup and other competitions could adopt it before it enters into force on 1 July 2026.
