Infantino: "If Any Player Leaves the Field Without Referee's Permission, a Red Card Will Be Shown; We Want Respect"

Gianni Infantino, President of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), spoke about two amendments approved in FIFA's laws, emphasizing the need to strengthen values of respect and discipline. The International Football Association Board (IFAB) ratified the use of red cards for players who leave the field of play in protest of a referee's decision. This new measure also applies to any team official who incites players to leave the pitch.

FIFA also clarified that referees are permitted to show a red card to any player who covers their mouth while speaking to an opponent.

Speaking during the FIFA Congress on Thursday, Infantino stated: "We don't want to waste time, we want respect. If any player leaves the field of play without the referee's permission, in FIFA competitions from now on, a red card will be shown to them."

The FIFA President added: "If a player covers their mouth while speaking to an opponent, they will also be penalized, because communication must be clear. When you speak to an opponent, you should not cover your mouth."

Infantino also stressed that the international federation "will also invest in making referees' lives better," as part of efforts to improve the flow of matches and enhance discipline within stadiums.