FIFA confirms major refereeing changes ahead of 2026 World Cup

FIFA has unveiled a series of new refereeing regulations and rule adjustments that will be implemented at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The governing body says the changes are designed to tackle time wasting, improve player discipline and reduce unsporting behaviour, following several controversial incidents witnessed in international and continental competitions over recent years.

Collina Details New Regulations

Speaking at a press conference, former Italian referee Pierluigi Collina, chairman of FIFA’s Referees Committee, outlined the key changes that will come into effect during the tournament.

The amendments cover player conduct, protests against officiating decisions, time wasting tactics and the use of video technology, all with the aim of ensuring smoother and fairer matches.

Red Cards for Covering the Mouth During Confrontations

One of the most notable changes concerns players who deliberately cover their mouths during heated exchanges with opponents.

According to Collina, referees will have the authority to issue a red card when a player uses their hands, shirt or any other object to conceal their mouth while involved in an argument or confrontation on the pitch.

However, FIFA clarified that the rule will only apply in situations involving direct disputes between players.

Collina explained that friendly conversations between players who know each other, such as teammates meeting while representing different national teams, will not fall under the regulation.

Vinicius Incident Influenced Decision

The new rule follows a controversial incident during the Champions League play off clash between Benfica and Real Madrid in February.

During the match, Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestiani was accused of racially abusing Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior. The Argentine player reportedly covered his mouth with his shirt during the confrontation, making it difficult for officials to determine exactly what was said.

Although he remained on the pitch at the time, FIFA later extended his suspension to six matches, including international fixtures, prompting discussions that ultimately contributed to the introduction of the new regulation.

Stronger Punishment for Walk-Off Protests

FIFA has also strengthened its stance against teams leaving the field in protest over refereeing decisions.

Under the new rules, any player who intentionally walks off the pitch to protest an officiating decision can be sent off immediately.

The same punishment may be imposed on members of the coaching staff who encourage players to leave the field or abandon a match in protest.

AFCON Controversy Cited as Reference

The decision follows a controversial episode during the Africa Cup of Nations final involving Morocco and Senegal.

According to FIFA’s explanation, Senegalese players temporarily left the field after instructions from their coaching staff following disputed refereeing decisions during the match against Morocco.

Although the game was eventually completed, the matter later reached the Court of Arbitration for Sport, which ruled in favour of Morocco.

The incident highlighted the need for stricter regulations regarding protests and match interruptions.

New Restrictions on Injury Delays

FIFA is also introducing measures aimed at reducing delays caused by injury stoppages.

Players will no longer be allowed to approach the technical area to receive tactical instructions while a goalkeeper is undergoing treatment on the field.

In addition, tournament medical regulations will require any player who receives treatment on the pitch to remain off the field for 60 seconds before returning to action.

Collina stressed that player cooperation would be essential in ensuring the effectiveness of the new measures.

Focus on Goalkeeper Time Wasting

The governing body has become increasingly concerned about situations in which goalkeepers appear to exaggerate injuries in order to create unofficial coaching breaks.

Several incidents in recent months have drawn criticism, including accusations that goalkeepers deliberately halted matches to allow teammates to gather near the technical area and receive instructions from coaches.

FIFA hopes the new regulations will discourage such practices and keep matches flowing more smoothly.

Countdown System Introduced for Restarts

Another significant change involves the introduction of countdowns for certain match restarts.

Referees will be permitted to use a five second countdown for both goal kicks and throw ins. If a team fails to take a goal kick within the allotted time, the opposing side may be awarded a corner kick.

Similarly, a throw in that exceeds the time limit could result in possession being handed to the opposition.

Collina noted that referees will still have some discretion, particularly in situations where players require additional time to reach the correct position before restarting play.

Expanded VAR Powers for Key Decisions

FIFA has also expanded the role of the Video Assistant Referee system ahead of the tournament.

VAR will now be able to review second yellow card incidents that result in dismissals, as well as cases involving potentially incorrect corner kick decisions.

The change forms part of FIFA’s broader effort to reduce major refereeing mistakes and increase fairness during World Cup matches.

With the tournament fast approaching, FIFA believes the new regulations will help improve discipline, enhance match flow and provide greater accuracy in officiating throughout the 2026 World Cup.