Gianluca Prestianni allegedly racially abused Vinicius Jnr
The Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) is considering introducing a new law that would bar players from speaking while covering their mouths, dubbed the ‘Prestianni Law.’
The match between Benfica and Real Madrid at the Estádio da Luz in Lisbon on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, was halted for 10 minutes after Vinícius Jr reported racial abuse by Gianluca Prestianni to referee François Letexier. Vinícius and his teammates temporarily left the field in protest.
Replays showed the Argentine footballer lifting his jersey to cover his mouth while speaking to Vinícius Jnr.
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The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) launched a probe into the case, with possible sanctions expected if Prestianni is found guilty.
During the investigation, officials noted a major challenge: they were unable to ascertain what Prestianni said because he covered his mouth.
Incidents of racial abuse can be particularly challenging to substantiate when players cover their mouths with their hands or jerseys. This simple act prevents cameras from recording what is being said, making it harder for officials and investigators to verify the abuse and take appropriate action.
In an attempt to close this loophole, FIFA officials are considering a rule that would ban players from covering their mouths while talking to opponents.
Reports indicate that, “the goal is to distinguish between normal tactical conversations and gestures clearly intended to conceal insults. The proposal remains under discussion, but the concept suggests that deliberately covering one’s mouth to avoid identification could itself become a punishable act, regardless of whether the exact words can be definitively proven.”
If adopted, this would mark a radical change in football, as covering the mouth has long been common practice during conversations on the pitch.
However, the law would serve as a strong measure against racial abuse and help protect the integrity of the sport.
SB/JE
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