FIFA has approved a set of five rule changes for the 2026 World Cup aimed at reducing time-wasting and increasing match tempo, following ratification by the International Football Association Board.

Axar.az reports, citing Insider Sport, under the new regulations, players being substituted must leave the pitch within 10 seconds or their replacement will be delayed by one minute, temporarily leaving the team short-handed. Restart times are also tightened, with throw-ins and goal kicks required within five seconds or possession awarded to the opposition. Players receiving on-field treatment must exit and wait one minute before returning, except in cases where the injury results from a cardable foul.

The VAR system will see expanded authority, including reviews of second yellow card dismissals, mistaken identity incidents, and, in some cases, incorrectly awarded corner kicks, provided reviews do not delay play. Additionally, only team captains will be permitted to approach referees, with other players risking yellow cards for dissent.

The measures, some of which were previously trialed in competitions such as Major League Soccer, will be introduced globally from July 2026 but applied earlier at the World Cup, set to take place from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.