FIFA is set to expand the scope of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) ahead of the 2026 World Cup, allowing officials to intervene in two additional key areas of the game.
The English press reports that referees requested the expansion to reduce errors in high-stakes matches.
Currently, VAR can intervene for red card decisions, goals, and penalty situations.
Under the proposed changes, VAR will also review cases where a player receives a second yellow card leading to an unjustified red and where referees incorrectly award corner kicks.
If approved, these updates could take effect from June 1st, in time for the World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
FIFA’s move aims to support referees in managing game-critical decisions more accurately. Corner kicks, often overlooked in previous VAR protocols, can have decisive effects on the flow and outcome of matches.
Similarly, errors involving second yellow cards have sparked controversies in major tournaments, prompting calls for more video oversight.
The expanded VAR will allow referees to halt play and review incidents when a second yellow card is issued incorrectly, ensuring fairness and reducing potential grievances.
Officials will also have the authority to correct misawarded corners, improving overall accuracy and maintaining the integrity of matches.
The governing body has already been testing new officiating measures in other competitions.
For example, at the Arab Cup, FIFA trialed a rule requiring players to serve a time penalty when treated for minor injuries without a preceding foul, reflecting a broader push to make matches fairer and more consistent.
FIFA’s planned VAR expansion signals a continued effort to integrate technology into football, minimizing human error while preserving the flow of the game.
With the World Cup just months away, teams, coaches, and players will need to adjust to these enhanced officiating protocols.
