FIFA unveils new refereeing rules for 2026 World Cup

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to begin, referees will be implementing a series of new rules designed to speed up play, reduce time-wasting, and enhance the use of video review technology. The changes, introduced by FIFA weeks ahead of the tournament, aim to improve match tempo and fairness for players and fans.

A central focus is on eliminating deliberate delays. For goal kicks and throw-ins, referees will now initiate a visible five-second countdown. If the ball is not put back into play before the count expires, the opposing team will be awarded a corner kick or the throw-in, respectively. Substituted players must exit the field within 10 seconds; failure to do so means their replacement cannot enter for at least one minute, forcing their team to play short-handed. The same one-minute waiting period applies to players who receive on-field treatment for injuries.

The scope of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system has been expanded. Officials can now review several additional scenarios, including the correct awarding of corner kicks, potential offside positions in the build-up to goals, and whether a second yellow card leading to a player's dismissal was justified....