FIFA has sanctioned at least four modifications within football matches in preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
The 2026 competition will take place in the US, Canada, and Mexico, and will feature 48 teams instead of the traditional 32.
These adjustments are anticipated to accelerate matches and assist referees in making improved decisions.
Here are the four new regulations:
1. Substitutions: When a player is substituted off, they must exit the field within 10 seconds. If they do not comply, their incoming team-mate will be required to wait one minute before entering the game.
2. Throw-ins: A player is obligated to throw the ball back into play within five seconds. If they exceed this time limit, the opposing team will be awarded possession.
3. Medical treatment: If a player receives treatment on the pitch, they cannot return for one minute.
4. VAR: Second yellow cards and corner-kick rulings will now be assessed by the Video Assistant Referee, VAR, in cases of clear and obvious mistakes.
