FIFA has unveiled eight new football laws set to take effect at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as part of efforts to improve match flow, enhance discipline, reduce time-wasting, and strengthen officiating standards.
The reforms, announced by FIFA Chief Refereeing Officer Pierluigi Collina ahead of the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, are also aimed at tackling misconduct, improving player safety, and increasing actual playing time.
One of the key changes targets on-field communication during confrontations. Players who deliberately cover their mouths with a hand, arm, or jersey during heated exchanges may now face a straight red card, a move designed to prevent abusive or discriminatory remarks from being hidden from officials.
FIFA has also introduced strict sanctions for protest actions. Any player or team official who deliberately leaves the pitch in protest against refereeing decisions risks dismissal, while teams that cause matches to be abandoned under such circumstances will forfeit the game.
To reduce delays, referees will now enforce a visible five-second countdown for throw-ins and goal-kicks. Failure to restart play within the time limit could result in possession being awarded to the opposition or a corner kick in the case of goal-kicks.
Substitution rules have also been tightened. Players being substituted must leave the field within 10 seconds via the nearest exit point, or their replacement may be delayed for up to one minute of active play.
Medical treatment rules for outfield players have also been adjusted. Except for special cases such as head injuries, goalkeeper injuries, or penalty situations, any outfield player treated on the pitch must remain off the field for one minute after play resumes.
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will also have expanded authority, now allowing intervention in cases such as mistaken identity, incorrect disciplinary decisions, selected corner-kick rulings, and fouls committed before set-pieces are taken.
To address extreme weather conditions, mandatory hydration breaks will be introduced in every match, lasting about three minutes per half, typically around the 22nd minute, with referees retaining flexibility on timing.
Finally, new restrictions will prevent tactical delays during goalkeeper injury stoppages. Outfield players will no longer be allowed to leave the pitch during such breaks, a measure aimed at stopping teams from using the situation for unofficial coaching discussions.
The new regulations will apply throughout the expanded 48-team 2026 FIFA World Cup.
