FIFA Expands VAR With New Rules Ahead Of 2026 World Cup

According to football authorities, FIFA has approved a series of significant amendments to the Laws of the Game, aimed at reducing time-wasting, enhancing fairness, and ensuring a smoother flow of matches ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The decisions were confirmed following the 140th annual meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB) in Wales.

The new regulations, set to take effect before the tournament—which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico and feature 48 teams—seek to minimize controversies surrounding refereeing decisions, maintain consistency in rule enforcement, and reduce unnecessary stoppages during games.

Key changes include a strict ten-second limit for players leaving the pitch during substitutions. Failure to comply will result in the incoming player being delayed for one minute, a move aimed at discouraging deliberate delays late in matches. Additionally, throw-ins and goal kicks must now be taken within five seconds, or possession will be awarded to the opposing team.

Medical treatment for injured players must also occur off the pitch, with a mandatory one-minute wait before returning to play. FIFA referees’ chairman, Pierluigi Collina, stated that the rule is intended to improve match flow and reduce strategic time-wasting.

The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will see expanded powers, allowing reviews of second yellow card offences and incorrect corner kicks, in addition to its existing scope covering goals, penalties, red cards, and mistaken identity incidents. IFAB emphasized that VAR reviews must remain prompt and limited to clear errors, so as not to disrupt the game.

Officials believe these reforms will enhance transparency, speed up matches, and improve consistency in officiating worldwide. With the 2026 World Cup set to host the largest number of teams in the tournament’s history, the new regulations are expected to support more efficient match management and maintain the tournament’s competitive integrity.