The 2026 World Cup is poised to be a revolutionary tournament—not just in scale, but possibly in how the game is played. According to The Times and The Sun, the International Football Association Board (IFAB), the governing body responsible for football’s rules, is contemplating three major rule changes that could dramatically shift match dynamics. If approved, these rules will be implemented just days before the tournament kicks off on June 1, 2026.
Let’s explore what these proposed tweaks mean for players, referees, and the beautiful game.
Table of Contents
1. No Rebounds After Saved Penalties
In a dramatic shift that could alter the psychology of penalty shootouts and spot-kicks, goalkeepers might be rewarded with a complete stoppage of play after saving a penalty. “If the goalkeeper stops an opponent’s penalty, the action stops, and the shooter, their teammates, or opponents would no longer be able to enter the penalty area to retrieve the ball.”
This means no more scrambles for rebounds. Once a penalty is saved, that’s it—the ball is dead. This change would significantly reward goalkeepers and reduce chaotic follow-up plays that often lead to goals. It would also make the penalty shootout experience cleaner and less controversial.
2. VAR to Cancel Unjustified Corners
Corners can often be a point of contention, especially when they result from misjudged decisions. IFAB is now proposing VAR intervention to overturn corner kicks that are incorrectly awarded. “The intervention of VAR to cancel an unjustified corner.”
This decision aims to uphold fairness in set-piece opportunities. An unjustified corner can lead to goals, despite originating from an incorrect call. This rule could prevent such situations, ensuring that only legitimate corners are awarded—especially crucial in tightly contested World Cup matches.
3. Second Yellow Card Reviews Through VAR
In the high-stakes environment of a World Cup, sending off a player due to a second yellow card can make or break a team’s progress. To address potential refereeing errors, the IFAB is considering: “The intervention of VAR to invalidate an unjustified second yellow card, which would mean a red card.”
This addition would empower referees to reverse second bookings if replays show the infraction was wrongly judged. Such a rule promotes fairness and could prevent teams from going a player down due to officiating mistakes.
What Happens Next?
These proposed rule changes are currently under discussion and will be presented at the next IFAB annual business meeting in November 2025. If they pass a vote during the Annual General Meeting in March 2026, they will come into effect on June 1, 2026—right before the first match of the 2026 World Cup.
Possible Impact on the 2026 World Cup
| Proposed Rule | Potential Impact |
|---|---|
| No play after saved penalties | Greater reward for goalkeepers, fewer rebound scrambles, reduced risk of injury. |
| VAR cancelling unjustified corners | Fairer set-piece opportunities, fewer goals from incorrect decisions. |
| VAR overturning second yellow cards | Helps prevent unjust red cards, ensures balanced competition. |
Read More: Argentine Football Lifts 12-Year Ban on Away Fans in a Historic Shift
FAQs
Are these rule changes confirmed for the 2026 World Cup?
No, they are still under discussion and will be voted on by IFAB in March 2026.
When will we know if the rules are approved?
The official vote is scheduled for March 2026. If passed, they’ll take effect on June 1, 2026.
Why stop play after a saved penalty?
To eliminate chaotic rebounds and ensure a clear, fair outcome once the penalty is saved.
How will VAR decide if a corner is unjustified?
VAR will use video replays to determine if the ball last touched a defending player before going out.
Can VAR already intervene in yellow card decisions?
Currently, VAR can only intervene in direct red cards. The new rule would expand its scope to second yellow cards.
