As football continues to evolve through technology, FIFA is exploring major changes to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system ahead of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. New proposals under review could significantly expand what VAR officials are allowed to review, with the goal of improving accuracy in the sport’s most high-stakes matches.
These potential adjustments, however, would apply only on a temporary or trial basis and are not expected to appear in domestic leagues such as the Premier League next season. Here is a detailed look at what may change and why it matters.
⸻
Expanded VAR Authority: Corner Kicks and Second Yellow Cards
Senior FIFA officials are pushing for VAR teams to gain authority in two key areas:
- Incorrectly Awarded Corner Kicks
Currently, VAR cannot intervene when a corner kick is mistakenly awarded. FIFA wants to change that for the World Cup, arguing that an incorrect corner could dramatically affect the outcome of a major match. Even a single set-piece could swing momentum in a knockout game.
- Review of Second Yellow Cards
Under today’s rules, VAR can review straight red cards but not a second booking that triggers a sending-off. FIFA believes this gap creates risk in the World Cup, where eliminating a team on a questionable second yellow could be catastrophic. IFAB, the sport’s lawmakers, will formally discuss this at their January business meeting, and there is already widespread support.
⸻
Why These Changes Matter for the World Cup
The stakes in a World Cup are unmatched, and FIFA argues that maximum accuracy is essential. A mistaken corner, a questionable second yellow card, or a missed incident could influence the biggest matches in world football, including the final.
Historically, FIFA has been granted special dispensations for tournaments. VAR itself was used in the 2017 Confederations Cup and Club World Cup before official approval. Similar temporary permissions would allow these new powers to be tested in 2026.
There have also been reports that VAR teams in competitions like the Champions League have already intervened unofficially on incorrect corners, despite those decisions currently being outside the protocol.
⸻
New Experimental Rule: Combatting Feigned Injuries
Another innovation being tested at the FIFA Arab Cup aims to discourage time-wasting and theatrical injuries. Under the trial:
- Any player who receives medical treatment must leave the pitch for two minutes.
- The only exception is when the injury results in a yellow or red card for the opponent.
This rule is designed to keep matches flowing and minimize fake injury stoppages. The debate intensified after Leeds United manager Daniel Farke suggested Manchester City’s goalkeeper may have exaggerated an injury to allow manager Pep Guardiola to issue fresh tactical instructions.
⸻
Other Rule Changes Under Discussion
FIFA and IFAB are exploring several broader adjustments to modernize the game.
- Radical Penalty Change
A proposal, currently with limited support, would declare the ball “dead” if a goalkeeper saves a penalty—preventing any follow-up goals. Critics argue this tilts the balance too heavily toward the defense.
- New Offside Interpretation
There is rising momentum to eliminate “toenail offsides” that require lengthy video scrutiny. A likely future change would judge offside based on whether any part of the torso is beyond the defender, rather than feet or head.
This rule, however, requires formal trials and is unlikely to be implemented for at least two more years. Early tests involving a “clear daylight” approach were abandoned because they overly favored attackers and significantly changed team tactics.
⸻
When Could These Changes Be Approved?
Any official law change must pass IFAB’s voting system, which includes:
- Four votes from the British football associations
- Four votes from FIFA
At least six out of eight votes are required.
If adopted, the new rules would go into effect on June 1, 2026, just in time for the World Cup kickoff.
⸻
What This Means for the Future of Football
The potential expansion of VAR powers reflects FIFA’s commitment to accuracy in the world’s biggest sporting event. Still, not all stakeholders agree. UEFA is firmly opposed to letting VAR intervene in corner-kick decisions due to fears of longer delays, and concerns remain about the overall pace of play.
As global football continues to balance tradition with technology, the coming months will determine how much VAR evolves before the 2026 World Cup — and how these changes shape the sport for years beyond.