Unprecedented FIFA rule causes first expulsion at the 2026 World Cup during game between Türkiye and Paraguay
A unique situation drew attention in the clash between Paraguay and Turkey, held this Friday (20) for the 2026 World Cup. Paraguayan midfielder Miguel Almirón was directly sent off, becoming the first athlete in the history of the tournament to receive a red card due to one of the recent changes in the rules established by the International Football Federation (Fifa). This incident highlights the strict application of the new guidelines, which aim to improve sporting conduct on the field.
The decisive move came during a heated disagreement between players from both teams, when Almirón, from Paraguay, put his hand to his mouth while arguing with an opponent. After a detailed analysis of the play by the video referee (VAR), the refereeing team decided to issue a direct red card to the player.
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The punishment was motivated by a recent change in FIFA’s instructions, which came into effect from the 2026 World Cup onwards. The act of covering the mouth, whether with the shirt or with one’s own hand, during an argument with an opponent is now interpreted as unsportsmanlike conduct, and the VAR has complete autonomy to intervene in these cases.
In a statement published on its official portal, FIFA reinforced the regulations: “Players are prohibited from covering their mouths during a confrontation with an opponent. If they violate this rule, they must receive a red card”, detailed the entity, consolidating the prohibition and mandatory sanction to guarantee clarity and respect in interactions between athletes.
