Chalien Dantes / Contributor

UEFA has confirmed that players who cover their mouths while speaking to opponents will not automatically be sent off in its competitions.

The rule, which was recently approved by football lawmakers as an optional measure for tournaments, will not be used in the Champions League, Europa League or Conference League. Instead, referees will judge each incident on its own and can issue a yellow card if they believe a player was trying to hide unsporting behaviour.

The issue gained attention earlier this year after Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni covered his mouth while speaking to Vinícius Júnior during a Champions League match. An investigation later found him guilty of homophobic conduct, resulting in a six-match ban, with half of the suspension suspended.

The new rule has divided opinion, with critics arguing it could unfairly punish players or be used to pressure officials into making harsh decisions. Confusion also arose during the World Cup when Jude Bellingham was not sent off after covering his mouth while speaking with Jordan Ayew.

UEFA has, however, decided to use expanded VAR reviews for incorrect corner kick decisions after several calls were successfully overturned during the World Cup.