FIFA to change VAR rules for the 2026 World Cup and ban goalkeeper tactical stoppages

FIFA will implement several changes to the laws at the 48-team 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, including new restrictions on goalkeeper tactical stoppages.

There will also be an expansion of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) powers to eliminate controversial goals from set-piece situations.

Referees’ chief Pierluigi Collina confirmed the measures during a briefing ahead of this summer’s tournament.

FIFA and the International Football Association Board (IFAB) are targeting time-wasting tactics and want to improve the accuracy of key match decisions.

One of the most notable changes concerns the common practice of teams using goalkeeper injuries as unofficial tactical breaks.

Goalkeepers have frequently gone to ground during matches, allowing players from both sides to gather around their coaches for instructions while treatment is administered.

Under the new World Cup guidelines, players will no longer be permitted to leave the field of play and congregate around the technical area when a goalkeeper is receiving treatment.

They will be required to remain on the pitch while medical staff attend to the injured player.

Collina said FIFA had already informed coaches from all 48 participating nations that referees would take a proactive approach to preventing such gatherings.

The move is intended to stop teams from exploiting injury stoppages, although it will not prevent managers from using other breaks to communicate with players.

Another major development concerns the VAR protocol.

IFAB approved a request allowing video officials to review attacking fouls committed before the ball is in play if they have a direct impact on a goal, penalty decision, or disciplinary sanction.

VAR could not previously intervene in incidents that occurred before a corner kick or free-kick had been taken.

The rule came under scrutiny following several controversial goals, in which attackers were accused of illegally blocking defenders before a set-piece delivery.

VAR will now be able to recommend action if an attacking foul before a restart directly influences the outcome of the phase of play.

Referees could order a retake of the corner or free-kick rather than allowing a goal to stand.

The 2026 World Cup will also feature several additional measures to speed up the game and reduce deliberate delays.

Players taking throw-ins and goal-kicks will face stricter countdown limits.

Substituted players must leave the pitch within 10 seconds or risk delaying the introduction of their replacement.

Outfield players who receive medical treatment will generally be required to remain off the field for 60 seconds before rejoining play.

Collina also revealed that players who cover their mouths during confrontational exchanges with opponents could face red-card sanctions.

FIFA view this practice as an attempt to conceal inappropriate or offensive language.