FIFA has approved several significant rule changes for the 2026 World Cup aimed at improving refereeing accuracy and player behavior. According to the sources, one of the most impactful updates is the expansion of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) powers.
VAR is now authorized to recommend canceling a goal or penalty if an attacking player commits a foul in the box immediately before a corner or free-kick is taken. Additionally, the sources state that VAR will now be able to review mistakenly issued second yellow cards and correct errors regarding whether a corner kick or goal kick should have been awarded.
FIFA is also introducing stricter measures regarding player conduct on the pitch. Referees will now pay close attention to players who cover their mouths with their hands, arms, or jerseys while speaking. If such behavior is deemed to be "excited" or used for "secret communication," it could result in a red card, although normal conversation remains permitted.
The sources highlight FIFA's plan to eliminate "tactical timeouts" disguised as medical breaks. This often occurs when a team uses a goalkeeper's injury treatment as an opportunity for the rest of the players to gather at the touchline for coaching instructions.
Pierluigi Collina, chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee, clarified that while genuine injuries will be treated, players will no longer be allowed to hold team meetings during these stoppages. These changes are set to be implemented as 48 teams prepare for the upcoming tournament.
