The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has confirmed several new rules for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, aimed at improving match flow and reducing time-wasting:
- Expanded powers for VAR officials to intervene in more match situations
- Mandatory 10-second limit for substitutions to speed up game restarts
- Stronger enforcement against tactical time-wasting by teams
- 5-second countdown rule for throw-ins
- 5-second countdown rule for goal-kicks
- Potential red cards for players covering their mouths during on-field confrontations
- Sanctions for teams that walk off the pitch in protest
- Mandatory one-minute off-field treatment period for injured players receiving medical attention
These changes are expected to make matches faster, more disciplined, and more engaging for fans at the 2026 tournament.
