Hensol, Wales – FIFA and the International Football Association Board have approved several changes to football’s Laws of the Game that will come into force ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The decisions were finalized during IFAB’s annual general meeting in Hensol, Wales, with the aim of speeding up play, reducing time-wasting, and improving refereeing consistency across global competitions. The expanded 48-team World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Key Rule Changes
One of the most notable adjustments concerns disciplinary actions following advantage. Under the new rules, players will no longer automatically receive a yellow card if a goal is scored after a referee allows play to continue following a foul. Officials say the change aims to maintain fairness while preserving attacking momentum.
To address delays during restarts, referees will introduce a five-second countdown for throw-ins and goal kicks. If a team fails to restart play within that timeframe, possession will be handed to the opposing side.
Stricter Substitution and Injury Rules
Football lawmakers have also tightened procedures surrounding substitutions and injuries. Players leaving the field after being substituted must exit within 10 seconds, or their replacement could be delayed from entering the pitch.
Additionally, players who stop play due to injury will be required to remain off the field for at least one minute after the match resumes, a measure intended to discourage tactical stoppages and time-wasting.
Expanded VAR Authority
The changes also expand the role of the Video Assistant Referee system. VAR officials will now be able to review clear refereeing errors involving second yellow cards and incorrectly awarded corner kicks, broadening oversight beyond the existing categories of goals, penalties, red cards, and mistaken identity.
Additional Measures
Other updates to the Laws of the Game, which officially take effect on July 1, include allowing certain non-dangerous items to be worn if properly covered. Referees may also be permitted to use body cameras during matches, a step aimed at increasing transparency and improving the review of officiating decisions.
Football’s rule-making authorities said the changes are designed to make the sport faster, fairer and more consistent at both elite and grassroots levels worldwide.
