Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

UEFA Skips Automatic Red Card Rule for Champions League

5/19/2026

50 4

Summary

Story summary

UEFA will not enforce the new automatic-red-card rule in its Champions League competitions.
The International Football Association Board approved the rule last month, with it taking effect on 1 June and used at the World Cup.
FIFA added the rule after Vinícius Júnior accused Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni of racial abuse, prompting a six-game ban.
Domestic leagues may adopt the rule, with the Premier League set to decide after its clubs’ AGM.

1 of 1

Story summary

UEFA will not enforce the new automatic-red-card rule in its Champions League competitions.
The International Football Association Board approved the rule last month, with it taking effect on 1 June and used at the World Cup.
FIFA added the rule after Vinícius Júnior accused Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni of racial abuse, prompting a six-game ban.
Domestic leagues may adopt the rule, with the Premier League set to decide after its clubs’ AGM.