England star Jude Bellingham found himself at the centre of fresh World Cup controversy after television cameras captured him covering his mouth while speaking to Ghana captain Jordan Ayew during Tuesdays goalless draw in Boston.
The incident quickly sparked debate among fans and pundits because FIFA introduced a new law for the 2026 tournament that allows players to be sent off for hiding their mouths while speaking to opponents during confrontational situations.
With Paraguay midfielder Miguel Almiron already becoming the first player dismissed under the regulation earlier in the competition, many questioned why Bellingham escaped punishment.
New FIFA rule comes under spotlight
The law was introduced following a request from FIFA president Gianni Infantino after Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni received a six-match UEFA ban for homophobic conduct towards Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior in a Champions League match earlier this year.
However, FIFAs position has always been that covering the mouth itself is not an offence. Instead, the punishment applies when players conceal their mouths during heated confrontations with opponents.
Before the tournament, FIFA head of referees Pierluigi Collina made that distinction clear.
Players can continue to cover their mouth with an arm and the shirt because they may chat with friends, Collina explained.
Its normal to chat before, during or after the match.
He added: When the conversation is confrontational, covering the mouth means that you are doing something very wrong, potentially, and the sanction is the red card.
Why Bellingham was not punished
That explanation proved crucial in understanding why VAR did not intervene during Englands clash with Ghana.
While Bellingham was seen speaking to Ayew with his mouth partially covered, there was no sign of hostility between the pair. The exchange appeared to be a routine conversation rather than part of an argument or flashpoint in the match.
Players across the tournament have frequently been seen speaking while shielding their mouths, and even referees have adopted the same practice. Under FIFAs interpretation of the law, such interactions are not punishable unless they occur during a confrontational incident.
As a result, match officials had no grounds to recommend a review or disciplinary action against the England midfielder.
Almiron dismissal highlights key difference
The contrast with Almirons red card against Turkey was significant.
In that match, tensions were already high after Paraguay striker Isidro Pitta went down claiming a heavy challenge from Turkey midfielder Ismail Yuksek. The incident triggered a mass confrontation involving players from both teams.
Amid the chaos, Almiron covered his mouth while speaking to Turkey defender Mert Muldur. Although the pair were not directly involved in the pushing and shoving, officials deemed the exchange part of a heated confrontation.
VAR advised a review and Almiron was subsequently sent off, becoming the first player dismissed under the new rule. He later received a one-match suspension and will miss Paraguays decisive final group game against Australia.
Consistency concerns remain
Speaking after Almirons dismissal, Infantino defended the regulation.
This thing about covering the mouth is for us a very, very important rule, he said. Its about respect. Its about the example that we should give.
Despite FIFAs stance, questions remain over how consistently the law can be applied. Critics argue the rule could be exploited by players attempting to draw attention to opponents during tense moments.
