The FIFA Players’ Voice Panel is investigating the possibility of making it a criminal offense to talk with a covered mouth on the football field. Mickaël Silvestre, member of the panel, announced this on Wednesday.
The reason is last Tuesday’s match between Benfica and Real Madrid. Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni is said to have racially abused Real Madrid striker Vinícius Júnior.
The match was won 0-1 by Real Madrid. Afterwards, however, it was mainly about the moment that took place after Vinícius’ goal.
Real Madrid players claim Prestianni shouted ‘mono’ (monkey) at the Brazilian. He allegedly held his shirt over his mouth. The Argentinian denies that he said anything racist. An investigation by UEFA and the Portuguese government into the incident is now underway.
“Our WhatsApp group exploded,” Silvestre said in a video call with Sky Sports. “We are trying to find a way to sanction players who cover their mouths while speaking. Talking about tactics is one thing, but there was clearly hatred here, especially from one player towards another. Maybe we should start punishing that behavior, whether it’s putting your hand over your mouth or your shirt.”
“Something like that takes time,” Silvestre continued. “We also have to consult with referees about what they can and cannot do. But it is being worked on and in any case this was a moment when everyone became aware of it again,” said Silvestre.
