World Cup 2026 rule changes: VAR, subs, and timekeeping explained

FIFA introduces 11 new laws for the 2026 World Cup, including faster VAR reviews and stricter timekeeping measures.

Referees and law changes for 2026 The 2026 World Cup will feature a record 11 new rule adjustments, according to Pierluigi Collina, FIFA’s top referee official. Collina aims to speed up play and minimize game-changing errors by implementing these changes. Most of these rules will also apply to the Premier League, English Football League, and Scottish Premiership starting next season. The updates cover VAR expansions, tempo protections, and adjustments to player conduct. ## Time-saving rules for goal-kicks and throw-ins FIFA has introduced countdown clocks to prevent timewasting on goal-kicks and throw-ins, with a five-second timer for deliberate delays. Referees will visibly signal the count by moving an arm up and down, similar to the existing eight-second rule for goalkeepers holding the ball. The goal is to discourage goalkeepers from taking excessive time on restarts, as delaying restarts could now result in a corner against their team if they waste time intentionally. Previously, referees had little recourse beyond a single yellow card, which often did not deter repeat offenses. ## Strict 10-second substitution limits Substituted players now have just 10 seconds to leave the field near the nearest boundary line, or their substitute cannot enter for at least one minute, forcing the team to play with 10 players. Exceptions exist for injuries or safety concerns, though security issues should not arise at the World Cup. The substitute may only enter once play stops again, meaning a team could be shorthanded for extended periods. This was demonstrated in a May friendly where an Iceland player took too long to leave, leaving his team with 10 men for over two minutes before Japan scored. ## One-minute recovery time for injured players FIFA has increased recovery time for injured players from 30 seconds to one minute after a physio’s pitchside assessment, a rule that will apply globally next season. This change replaces an earlier trial of two minutes following pushback from domestic leagues, with one minute serving as a compromise. Concerns remain that this duration could unfairly penalize genuine injuries or discourage players from seeking treatment. Exceptions allow immediate returns in specific cases, such as goalkeeper injuries, collisions involving goalkeepers and outfield players, severe injuries like concussions, or when a penalty is awarded to an injured player. ## Goalkeeper tactical timeouts face scrutiny FIFA has moved to curb the ‘goalkeeper tactical timeout’ tactic, where goalkeepers fake injuries to trigger stoppages for team talks. While Collina has instructed coaches of the 48 World Cup teams to prevent players from gathering in the technical area during such incidents, the tactic may still be used to disrupt opponents. The three-minute hydration breaks in each half provide natural stoppages, complicating enforcement efforts. Officials lack clear disciplinary tools, as yellow cards cannot be shown for this behavior. ## Expanded VAR coverage for key decisions VAR will now review four additional scenarios during the 2026 World Cup. The system will check if a corner was correctly awarded, provided this does not cause delays and is completed before the restart. FIFA also plans to use new ‘out of bounds’ technology to determine who last touched the ball, though delays may prevent its use for corner decisions. VAR can review red cards issued for a player’s second yellow, but only if there is a clear error, not for subjective differences of opinion. Offensive fouls before the ball is in play can now be reviewed if they lead to a goal, penalty, or disciplinary action, with restarts adjusted accordingly. ## Mistaken identity and player behavior rules FIFA has added a niche VAR review to correct mistaken identity bookings or send-offs, where the wrong player is penalized. Collina pointed to Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni, banned for six matches for alleged homophobic language against Vinicius Jr, as a case where mouth-covering in confrontational situations could warrant a red card. Players leaving the field to protest referee decisions may also face immediate dismissal. This addresses incidents like the Africa Cup of Nations final, where Senegalese players initially refused to resume play after a disputed penalty, leading to a 17-minute delay and eventual match reversal by CAF.