FIFA and soccer’s lawmakers (IFAB) have introduced significant rule changes ahead of the 2026 World Cup in North America, aimed at stamping out time-wasting and refining the use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
Expanded VAR Powers and the "Anti-Blocking" Rule
A major focus is on set-pieces. Prompted by tactics popularized in the Premier League, a new rule prohibits players from setting basketball-style screens to block defenders during corners and attacking free kicks. VAR is now empowered to intervene if a blocking action occurs before the ball is in play, allowing referees to disallow any resulting goals.
VAR’s authority has also expanded into new categories. Officials can now review second yellow cards that lead to a dismissal and overturn them if a clear error was made. Additionally, "silent checks" will be introduced for corner kicks; VAR can quickly analyze potential errors in awarding a corner and advise the referee before the kick is taken, without interrupting the flow of the game.
Crackdown on Time-Wasting
The 2026 World Cup will feature aggressive measures against time-wasting, reducing referee discretion with hard countdowns:
Goal Kicks and Throw-ins: Lawmakers have already imposed an 8-second limit for goalkeeper possession. Now, if players deliberately delay goal kicks or throw-ins, the referee will initiate a five-second countdown. Exceeding this limit will result in a corner kick against the delaying team (for goal kicks) or a reversal of possession (for throw-ins).
Goalkeeper Timeouts: The controversial tactic of goalkeepers feigning injuries to allow coaches to deliver team talks is being heavily policed. While permanent law changes are still in trials, teams are increasingly restricted from clustering at the touchline during these stoppages.
Delayed Substitutions: Starting from the opening match on June 11, substituted players will have exactly 10 seconds to leave the pitch from the nearest touchline. Failure to do so will force their team to play a man down for one minute before the substitute can enter.
Medical Interventions and Player Conduct
To combat tactical injuries, outfield players receiving medical treatment on the pitch must remain on the sidelines for one full minute before returning, unless the foul that caused the injury resulted in a yellow or red card. FIFA Referees Chief Pierluigi Collina emphasized that these rules are meant to serve as a strong deterrent.
Furthermore, direct red cards will be issued to players caught arguing with opponents while covering their mouths, as this will be presumed an offensive or racist insult. Players who leave the pitch in protest without authorization will also face immediate dismissal.
Finally, due to the intense North American summer heat, mandatory three-minute hydration breaks will be implemented around the 22nd minute of each half.
