New rules that will be seen in the 2026 World Cup

Some new rules are being introduced for the 2026 World Cup and upcoming domestic seasons, which start this month. FIFA has made these decisions in an effort to speed up the game and reduce disruption.

1. Red card for speaking with your mouth closed.

Players who cover their faces with their hands during an on-field argument will be given a straight red card (sent off the field). The rule was introduced after a player made racist and offensive comments to Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior.

• Exception: However, there will be no penalty if players cover their faces during normal and friendly conversation.

2. 5 seconds for throw-ins and goal kicks

To stop wasting time, referees will now count down 5 seconds by raising their hands during throw-ins and goal kicks.

• If a throw-in is not taken within 5 seconds, the opposing team will receive a throw-in.
• If a goal kick is not taken within 5 seconds, the opposing team will receive a corner kick.

3. 10 seconds to change players

When removing a player from the field, the player will only have 10 seconds to leave the field after the referee has raised the board. He must exit the field through the closest point to the sideline.

• If he does not come out within 10 seconds, that team will have to play with one player less for at least one minute before bringing on a substitute.

4. Injuries and treatment

If a player requires treatment on the field, he must remain off the field for at least one minute after the game has started.

• Exception: This rule will not apply in the event of injury or serious injury to the goalkeeper.
• The entire team will not be able to hold any strategy or tactical meetings on the field due to the goalkeeper’s medical treatment.

5. Water break in every match

Every match in the 2026 World Cup (even in indoor stadiums) will have a 3-minute water break 23 minutes into each half of play. Coaches will be able to explain tactics to players during this time, and TV channels will show advertisements.

6. VAR now in three more cases

The powers of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) have been further expanded. From now on, VAR will also be able to make decisions in the following 3 cases:

• If you give someone a second yellow card by mistake.
• Showing a yellow or red card to the wrong player.
• If a corner kick is awarded incorrectly (if the decision can be made very quickly).

7. Severe punishment for leaving the field in protest

If players leave the field in a group to protest a referee’s decision, they will be given a straight red card. If the team’s coach or staff incites the players to leave the field, they will also be shown a red card. And if the field is abandoned, the opposing team will be declared the winner (forfeit) by a score of 3-0.