Six big rule changes at the 2026 World Cup that all fans should know about
The 2026 World Cup is bringing six new rules that could really change the game during this summer’s tournament in the US, Mexico, and Canada. These include quick 10-second substitutions and new ways to stop timewasting.
Earlier this year, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) shared these changes to help speed up the game and make it better for both fans and players. IFAB is the group in charge of the rules of football, and former referee Pierluigi Collina, who is FIFA’s top refereeing officer, has played a big part in making these updates happen.
“We want to make the game as clean as possible,” said Collina.
Some new ideas include countdowns for throw-ins and goal kicks, and players getting one minute off the field if they need medical treatment. These changes could have a big impact at the 48-team tournament.
So, what’s new? One interesting rule says that if a player covers their mouth during a confrontation, they could get a red card. This follows a serious incident when Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni was banned for six games after using homophobic language against Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. in a recent match.
“If it’s just friends talking, that’s fine,” Collina explained. “But if it’s a fight, covering the mouth means you’re trying to hide something wrong.”
“It’s something done on purpose—not something players do without thinking.”
Another big change is that VAR (video assistant referee) can now undo wrongly given second yellow cards and wrong corner kicks. VAR can also check for fouls before the ball is in play during set pieces.
Here are the six new rules:
1. Players who are substituted have 10 seconds to leave the field. If they don’t, the next player must wait one minute before coming on.
2. Referees will show a visible five-second countdown for throw-ins and goal-kicks. If a throw-in isn’t taken on time, the other team gets the ball. If a goal-kick is delayed, the other team will get a corner.
3. Players treated on the field usually have to stay off for 60 seconds before returning — with some exceptions.
4. VAR can cancel wrongly given second yellow cards and wrong corners.
5. VAR can also check for fouls before the ball is played during set pieces.
6. Players covering their mouths during a fight with an opponent can get a red card.
Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville really likes the 10-second substitution rule. “I think this is great,” he said on The Overlap. “It’s so annoying when players walk off slowly to waste time. Teams have been gaming the system. FIFA should get credit for these referee changes—they’ll make the game better for fans.”
What do you think of these new rules? Share your thoughts in the comments!