World Cup rule changes aim to speed up play and expand VAR powers

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, FIFA is set to introduce a wide package of rule changes designed to reduce time-wasting and alter how matches are managed. The tournament will begin in the summer of 2026, and the reforms are expected to influence football beyond the event.

Among the main changes, substituted players will have to leave the pitch within 10 seconds, goalkeepers will face a five-second limit on holding the ball, and throw-ins will also be capped at five seconds. Players receiving treatment on the field will have to exit and wait one minute before returning. In addition, every match will include three-minute water breaks in each half, regardless of weather or stadium roof, effectively splitting games into quarters.

The biggest shift is in VAR, which will be allowed to review second yellow cards and correct mistaken identity, while erroneous corner kicks may also be checked if play is not delayed. FIFA also approved a rule inspired by anti-racism concerns, under which referees can punish players who speak while covering their mouths. Separately, if a team walks off in protest, as Senegal did at the Africa Cup of Nations, it will now forfeit 3-0.