Now during the COVID-19 Pandemic, intentional coughing involves using offensive, abusive or derogatory language or gestures in the football world.
If a footballer intentionally coughs up to opposing players or officials during a coronavirus epidemic, the referee may show a red card as punishment. The Sports Lawmakers and the Football Association of England said.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) said the matter depended on the referee’s decision. the referee will be able to make this decision if he thinks the matter has been made to annoy someone.
The association board said, “Like all types of offenses, the referee must understand the other offenses and pass judgment. If the matter is apparently accidental, or the cough is given at a considerable distance, then the referee will not give any punishment for that cough. However, the referee will be able to take action if it happens from near and is observed as offensive.
