The International Football Association Board (IFAB) approved a package of rule changes during its annual meeting in Wales, which will come into effect for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. The most significant modifications involve extending the VAR system's authority to review corner kicks and second yellow cards. Rigorous time-counting mechanisms have also been introduced to eliminate deliberate delays during throw-ins and player substitutions.

Expanded Role of the VAR System

Video referees can now intervene on second yellow cards and verify corner kicks leading to a goal.

Time Limits on Restarts

15-second limits for throw-ins and time restrictions for players leaving the pitch have been introduced.

Crackdown on Provocations

New regulations, called the "Vinicius Law," foresee penalties for covering one's mouth while insulting opponents.

Implementation for the 2026 World Cup

All new rules will come into force from the first match of the World Cup in North America.

The body governing the laws of football, IFAB, has made historic decisions aimed at increasing fairness and the dynamism of football matches. During the meeting in Cardiff, changes were approved that will directly impact the course of the 2026 World Cup. The greatest debate surrounds the expansion of the VAR protocol. From now on, video referees will be able to verify the correctness of awarding a corner kick (if a goal was scored directly from it) and the validity of showing a second yellow card, which often decided match outcomes but had previously remained outside the system's jurisdiction. The second pillar of the reform is an uncompromising fight against time-wasting. IFAB has introduced a countdown system for throw-ins (15-second limit) and for players leaving the pitch during substitutions. A player exiting the field will have a limited time to reach the nearest touchline, otherwise, they risk immediate admonishment. These changes are a response to the declining effective playing time in the world's top leagues, where actual on-pitch action often lasts less than 60 minutes. The IFAB organization, founded in 1886, has for over a century overseen the uniformity of football rules, combining representatives of the four British federations from the cradle of football with FIFA experts.Among the new regulations is also the so-called "Vinicius Law," aimed at protecting players from provocation and racism. Referees have been instructed to more severely penalize players who cover their mouths while uttering offensive remarks towards opponents or officials. Although some experts fear further interruptions to the game caused by video interventions, FIFA argues that the precision of decisions is paramount over the pace of play in crucial tournament moments. „Our goal is to protect football and increase the pace of the game. These changes will make the sport fairer and more attractive for the fans.” — President of FIFA involved in approving the new rules of the game.

Mentioned People

  • Gianni Infantino — President of FIFA involved in approving the new rules of the game.
  • Vinícius Júnior — Brazilian footballer, after whom the regulation combating verbal provocation is colloquially named.