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- FIFA have officially confirmed several new rules that will be in effect at the 2026 World Cup. They’re as follows;
• VAR checks on corners:
VAR can now intervene to confirm whether a corner kick has been awarded correctly, provided the review is completed before play restarts.
• Timed substitutions (10 seconds):
Players being substituted must leave the pitch within 10 seconds via the nearest exit point. Failure to do so means the replacement must wait at least one minute before entering, leaving the team temporarily with 10 men.
• Goal-kick countdown (5 seconds):
Goalkeepers and teams attempting to run down the clock can be punished, with a corner kick awarded to the opposition.
• Second yellow card reviews:
VAR can review the second caution that leads to a dismissal, although potential second-yellow incidents themselves cannot be reviewed before the card is shown.
• Off-field treatment (60 seconds):
Players receiving medical treatment must remain off the pitch for one minute before returning, with specific exceptions including goalkeepers and certain injury situations.
• Covering the mouth during confrontations:
Players who cover their mouths while engaging in confrontations with opponents could face a red card.
These changes are designed to reduce time-wasting, improve transparency, and keep the game flowing at the 2026 World Cup.
