The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has confirmed a number of seismic rule changes that will be introduced for the 2026 World Cup.
FIFA referees' chief Pierluigi Collina has overseen a number of rule changes for the 2026 edition in an attempt to eradicate tactics used to slow the tempo of play and waste time.
In theory, these changes will reduce the amount of stoppage time added, and speed up the game within the allotted 90-minutes of a match.
Read every rule change that has been approved ahead of this summer's tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada below:
What rule Changes will be introduced at the 2026 World Cup
VAR can step in if a foul is committed before the ball enters play at a set piece.
VAR can overturn wrongly awarded second yellow cards and incorrectly awarded corners.
Five-second countdowns will be carried out for throw-ins and goal-kicks.
Deliberate attempts from goalkeepers to run down the clock can result in a corner being awarded.
If a substituted player fails to leave the pitch at the nearest point in 10 seconds, the substitute cannot enter the field for at least one minute and the team must continue with 10 players.
Red cards will be given to players covering their mouths during confrontations.
Teams will be punished for walking off the pitch in protest.
Players who are treated by the physio must stay off the field for 60 seconds.
Discover more from bet365
Read the latest World Cup news on site.
Every Team to Qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
World Cup History & Records.
