The ‘Vinicius law’ is coming to football
IFAB and FIFA agree to crack down on racism and approve a ban on players covering their mouths when addressing an opponent.
One of the most pressing issues to have emerged in football in recent years, and one that has caused particular concern for Gianni Infantino’s FIFA, is racism. The world governing body has introduced a range of protocols aimed at curbing the problem, or at the very least identifying and exposing anyone, player or spectator, who uses the sport to spread racist messages. The so called Vinicius Law is now in force. The Brazilian forward has become a leading figure in the fight against racism, a cause that has gained increasing visibility across the football world in recent years.
The events of recent weeks involving Pestriani and Vinicius have not gone unnoticed by FIFA. At the IFAB Assembly held on Saturday, 28 February, it was agreed that players will be prohibited from using shirts or any other object, including their hands, to cover their mouths while addressing an opponent. The measure is expected to be formally approved before this summer’s World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
This is another clear sign of FIFA’s commitment to combating racism and all forms of discrimination. There is no place for racists in football. Regulations and disciplinary measures will now need to be refined to ensure there is an effective sanctioning mechanism to prevent such gestures during matches. For the time being, a yellow card has been suggested as a possible initial step.
The IFAB Assembly has provided the ideal platform to secure broad agreement that this is an issue affecting every level of the game. FIFA is determined to avoid a repeat of the scenes witnessed in Lisbon.
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