- What is the purpose of the new rule that allows you to be sent off if you talk with your mouth covered?
- FIFA introduced the practice of players covering their mouths for the purpose of ``tactical secrecy and deterring opponents from raising objections.'' This is aimed at eliminating acts that interfere with referees' decisions and pressure on opposing players.
- Why wasn't Bellingham sent off even though he covered his mouth?
- According to the BBC, the main reason for this was that the conversation was friendly, rather than the "confrontational situation" envisaged by the rules. The referee placed emphasis on the ``intention'' and ``context'' of the act and did not issue an ejection.
- What specific situations does this rule apply to?
- Pierluigi Collina, head of FIFA's disciplinary committee, explained that the act of covering one's mouth applies when there is "an intention to put pressure on opposing players or interfere with the referee's decision." A policy that does not strictly apply to trivial conversations.
- Is there a possibility that a similar case will result in an ejection in the future?
- FIFA aims to strengthen the education of referees and ensure consistent application of the rules. It is highly likely that there will be cases in which players are sent off in future matches, as the context and intent of the situation will be assessed comprehensively.
- How does this rule affect player behavior?
- While there is a risk that communication between players may deteriorate, there is also the benefit of discouraging behavior that interferes with referees' decisions. In the future, attention will be paid to changes in the players' behavior.
- What criteria do referees use to judge the act of covering one's mouth?
- According to Colina, the team comprehensively evaluates the flow of the match, the players' facial expressions, the tone of their voices, past matches, and other factors to determine the ``intent'' of their actions. The challenge is to draw the line between a simple gesture and the use of pressure.
