Three New Rules Set to be Introduced

When football kicks off at the 2026 World Cup, fans will need to get used to several big changes to the laws of the sport, as three new rules are seemingly set to be implemented at the tournament.

The beautiful game is always evolving, as we have seen throughout the 2025/26 season. Six new rules were introduced to the Premier League for the current campaign, including limits on which players could speak to referees and the ‘eight-second rule’ which applies to how long goalkeepers can hold the ball.

The latter is one of the laws which is set to be adjusted for the World Cup, along with how VAR is used. The International Football Association Board (IFAB) is backing several new rules as they aim to cut timewasting and increase the tempo of the game.

Two Rule Changes to How VAR is Used

At their Annual Business Meeting in London, IFAB backed plans to extend the use of VAR. According to the new measures, it will now be allowed to intervene over potential second yellow cards.

However, the video assistant referee will only be allowed to recommend a review if they believe that there is “clear factual evidence” that they have been given unjustifiably, therefore allowing for them to recommend a decision is rescinded. Additionally, they would also be allowed to intervene if a card had been shown to the wrong team.

Moreover, IFAB’s new recommendations would allow VAR to provide input on corner decisions. Under the new guidelines, they will be allowed to check decisions and correct them if they are clearly wrong, as long as the check can be done, “immediately and without delaying the restart.”

The changes cannot be approved until IFAB’s general meeting takes place in Cardiff on the 28th February, but convening members agreed on both of the recommendations above. Former Premier League referee David Elleray said: “If the decision of a second yellow card is clearly factually incorrect, it could be reviewed. We’re expecting that will be brought immediately.

“Using VAR for corners, whether by using the chip in the ball if you have that, or when the initial decision is blatantly wrong, is also something that could be applicable from the World Cup.”

Time-Wasting Another Point of Contention at Meeting

Along with the changes to VAR, IFAB are seeking to implement changes which improve the speed of the game. The ‘eight-second rule’ currently applied to goalkeepers is set to be expanded, with it now also applying to throw-ins and goal-kicks.

Discussions will also be held over introducing a new 10-second rule which will be applied to substitutions. Players leaving the pitch will have a time limit to leave the field when brought off, otherwise their replacement will not be allowed on until the next break in play. Moreover, injured players will need to stay off the pitch for two minutes, unless they were fouled by an individual who then received a yellow or red card.

IFAB chief and FA of Wales CEO Noel Mooney said: “The theme now is very much about improving the tempo of the game and reducing timewasting. So we’re working on a package of measures to make sure that fans get an even better experience of football which is crucial.”