New World Cup Rules: VAR Expands, Red Card Offenses Increase

The Evolution of VAR in World Cup Football

The 2026 World Cup will see significant changes to the role of Video Assistant Referees (VAR). VAR will now be used to check every decision that results in a corner, as well as decisions leading to the award of a second yellow card and thus a sending-off. This expansion aims to reduce wrong decisions affecting high-profile matches.

Enhanced VAR Protocol for Set Pieces

In addition to its existing responsibilities, VAR will also assess fouls before set pieces. If an incident occurs before a set piece and has a direct impact on the outcome, VAR can intervene. This change targets issues like grappling in the box before corners and free kicks.

Tougher Discipline: New Red Card Offenses

Two new incidents have led to the introduction of additional red card offenses. Players or officials who leave the field in protest at a referee's decision can now be given a red card. Similarly, players who cover their mouths in a confrontational situation will also face the same sanction.

Cracking Down on Tactical Timeouts

To prevent tactical timeouts, outfield players will be required to leave the field for treatment and stay off for 60 seconds before rejoining. Goalkeepers will continue to receive treatment on the field, but with the added requirement that other players retreat to the center circle during treatment.

Speeding Up the Game

Referees will implement countdowns to speed up goal kicks and throw-ins. A five-second countdown will be used, and failure to comply will result in the opposition being awarded the throw-in or a corner.

Player Substitutions and Time Management

Players being substituted must leave the field within 10 seconds of their number being raised. Failure to do so will result in the replacement player being kept off the field for an additional minute.