IFAB unveils major World Cup rule changes ahead

Football’s lawmakers, the International Football Association Board (IFAB), have approved a series of significant rule changes that will be introduced for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. The measures are designed to improve match flow, reduce time-wasting and expand the role of VAR in key situations. [1]

Expanded VAR powers
VAR or Video Assistant Referee will now be allowed to review wrongly awarded second yellow cards, cases of mistaken identity and certain incorrect corner-kick decisions. Officials will also be able to intervene when an offence committed before a set piece has a direct impact on a goal, penalty or disciplinary decision. The aim is to correct clear and obvious errors without causing unnecessary delays. [2]

The10-second substitution rule
Players being substituted must leave the field within 10 seconds after the substitution board is shown. They must exit from the nearest point on the boundary line. If they fail to do so, the replacement player will not be allowed to enter immediately and must wait until the next stoppage after at least one minute of play has passed. The rule is intended to discourage deliberate delays during substitutions. [1]

Crackdown on tactical timeouts 
FIFA officials will stop teams from using goalkeeper injury stoppages as unofficial tactical timeouts. When a goalkeeper receives treatment, players will no longer be permitted to gather around the technical area for team talks with coaches. Referees have been instructed to actively prevent such situations during World Cup matches. [3]

Five-second restart countdowns
Referees will be empowered to begin a visible five-second countdown when players take too long to restart play through throw-ins or goal kicks. Teams that fail to restart within the allotted time risk losing possession, a move designed to speed up the game and reduce time-wasting tactics. [4]

Mandatory off-field treatment period
Outfield players who receive medical treatment on the pitch after an injury stoppage will be required to remain off the field for at least one minute once play resumes. Exceptions will apply for goalkeepers, head injuries, concussions, collisions and players preparing to take a penalty. The measure aims to discourage players from using minor injuries to disrupt the rhythm of matches. [1]

Hydration breaks in every match
Each half of every World Cup match will include a mandatory three-minute hydration break. Match officials will have flexibility regarding the exact timing of the stoppage depending on the flow of the game and any injuries that occur. The rule is intended to help players cope with demanding weather conditions and maintain performance levels. [1]

These changes represent one of the most extensive updates to football regulations in recent years, with IFAB and FIFA hoping they will create faster, fairer and more entertaining matches during the 2026 World Cup. [1]