Handshakes to be compulsory say FIFA

Players from opposing teams will be obliged to shake hands with each other at the end of a match, world body FIFA has said.

“This shall remind spectators that despite all of the emotions of a football match, it remains a game to be playedin accordance with the Laws of the Game – and one that should not be dwelled upon once the players have left the pitch,” FIFA said in a statement.

“Losing is also part and parcel of football.”

The initiative will apply to “all FIFA events”, which means tournaments such as the World Cup and Confederations Cup.

FIFA hopes other governing bodies will follow theirlead.