FIFA is implementing a special gesture to combat racism during World Cup matches. Referees will stop the game upon seeing it.
Journalist Henry Winter shared on X that players will cross their arms over their chest when facing racist abuse.
Upon seeing this gesture, referees will activate FIFA's three-step procedure. First, the match is paused. If abuse continues, a 15-minute break is called. A third incident results in match abandonment.
The rule was first tested at the 2024 U-20 Women's World Cup in Colombia.
The 2026 World Cup will be held from June 11 to July 19 in the US, Canada, and Mexico, featuring 48 national teams.
