The 2026 World Cup is Coming Up

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is on the horizon, and with the expansion to 48 participating countries, several new rules have been put in place.

Here’s a rundown of the key rule changes to prepare for before the tournament kicks off.

VAR Adjustments for the 2026 World Cup

In anticipation of the World Cup, IFAB has revealed updates regarding Video Assistant Referees (VAR).

These updates will affect not just play but also situations that arise during disputes among players during suspensions.

One significant change is that VAR will now check all decisions that lead to corner kicks. However, as per IFAB guidance, interventions are only permitted “if we can change the decision immediately without delaying the restart.”

It’ll be intriguing to see how this plays out across various games, but I suppose time will tell…

Furthermore, VAR will evaluate situations involving second yellow cards and the subsequent red card scenario. According to IFAB, VAR might be consulted when a clearly incorrect second yellow card leads to a red card.

In cases of mistaken identity, VAR will also step in. If a yellow or red card is issued to the wrong player, the system will review it. Specifically, IFAB states that VAR will be utilized to address instances where “a player mistakenly receives a red or yellow card for an offense committed by another player.”

Moreover, VAR will also check for attacking fouls prior to the official start of the play. Dubbed a “clarification” by IFAB, this aims to broaden how goals and penalties are assessed following set pieces, encouraging video officials to review incidents while play is halted.

As highlighted by the media, referees would like players to be mindful of grappling in the box before a corner kick or free kick, especially in light of overlooked fouls in recent friendly matches.

Cover Your Mouth…Except When Coughing

Under new regulations, players found covering their mouths in confrontational situations could receive a red card.

This measure aims to curb potentially racist, homophobic, or abusive language from being obscured. A notable incident occurred during a Champions League match when Benfica’s Gianluca Prestiani covered his mouth amid a confrontation and later faced allegations regarding his remarks.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the need for this rule, declaring that players who shield their mouths while saying something inappropriate should indeed face red-card consequences.

As he put it, “There must be an assumption that something inappropriate was said, or else there wouldn’t be any reason to cover one’s mouth.”

Stay on the Field or Else

Another notable rule states that players and officials can face penalties for leaving the field in protest of a referee’s decision. This change follows an incident involving Senegal’s coach and players during a recent African Cup of Nations final.

Now, any player or official who “leaves the pitch to protest a referee’s decision” may receive a red card.

To enhance the pace of the game and possibly deter time-wasting strategies, players must exit the pitch within 10 seconds after their substitution is announced. Failing to do so means the substitute can’t participate.

Additionally, referees can initiate a 5-second countdown for throw-ins or goal kicks if they suspect that a player is taking too long. If the player fails to comply, possession will simply shift to the opponent.

Injured Players Returning to the Field

Right now, outfield players receiving medical attention on the pitch are usually kept off for a minimum of one minute once the game resumes.

There are exceptions for goalkeepers and serious injuries, but there are also changes to how goalkeeper incidents are handled. To limit “tactical timeouts,” outfield players won’t be allowed to consult with coaches while the goalkeeper is treated for an injury.

Interestingly, no specific penalties for breaching this new regulation have been set. FIFA’s chief referee noted that the issue was discussed with all 48 squads and that referees would actively monitor the situation to prevent exploitation.

He stated, “If a goalkeeper is down, that doesn’t give outfield players the right to leave the field for a chat with their coaches.”

Infantino acknowledged the lack of a unified approach to sanctions but assured that measures will be refined moving forward. For now, cooperation from players is encouraged.

Lastly, FIFA is also adding a hydration break around the 22nd minute of each half, allowing players a short period to rehydrate. This break will last three minutes.