Overview
- FIFA created the 'Ley Prestianni' after a February Champions League exchange and introduced it at the 2026 World Cup to penalize players who cover their mouths while addressing opponents.
- The rule is enforced on-field with support from VAR and carries an immediate red card, a mechanism that has cost teams players directly after pivotal events.
- Julián Carranza was sent off in Toluca vs Necaxa for covering his mouth during a confrontation, leaving Necaxa a man down after an equalizer and helping Toluca secure the win.
- Leagues have already recorded multiple cases: two expulsions at the World Cup and at least two in Liga MX, while one Argentine player avoided a red after explaining he was adjusting a mouthguard.
- Media and fan reaction highlights a perceived pattern of sanctioned South American players and calls for clearer FIFA guidance or targeted education to reduce disputed applications.