2026 FIFA World Cup: 10 new rules that will change the game

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has approved a series of rule changes ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with measures targeting time-wasting, protest behaviour, and expanded use of technology.

FIFA's chief refereeing officer, Pierluigi Collina, confirmed the rules would be strictly enforced when the tournament kicks off on Wednesday, June 11, 2026, across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Here are the 10 new rules set to shape the tournament:

1. Five-second countdown for throw-ins and goal-kicks Referees will use a visible five-second countdown for throw-ins and goal-kicks. Failure to take a throw-in in time hands possession to the opposition; a delayed goal-kick results in a corner for the opposing side.

2. Ten-second substitution exit Substituted players must leave the pitch within ten seconds via the nearest boundary line. Failure to comply means the replacement can only enter at the first stoppage after one minute has elapsed.

3. Red card for covering mouth during confrontations Players who cover their mouth during confrontational situations face a red card. The rule follows high-profile incidents involving alleged slurs made under cover of hand or shirt.

4. Red card for walking off in protest Players who leave the pitch in protest of a refereeing decision will be sent off. Teams causing abandonments forfeit the match, and officials who encourage players to walk off face the same punishment.

5. Expanded VAR powers VAR can now intervene for wrongly-awarded second yellow cards, mistaken identity, incorrectly-awarded corners, and fouls committed before the ball is in play at set-pieces.

6. One-minute off-field treatment rule Outfield players receiving on-pitch treatment must remain off for at least one minute after play resumes, with exceptions for goalkeepers, concussions, and penalty situations.

7. Mandatory three-minute hydration breaks A compulsory three-minute hydration break will be held in each half, with referees given flexibility over timing.

8. Crackdown on tactical injury timeouts Referees will proactively prevent teams from exploiting injuries to hold tactical huddles, according to Collina.

9. Body cameras for referees Referees are now permitted to wear body cameras during matches under the updated Laws of the Game.

10. Non-dangerous wearables permitted Certain non-dangerous items may be worn if properly covered, subject to the referee's discretion.

Organisers hope the changes will boost fairness, speed up play, and improve the overall experience for players and fans alike.