VAR, timewasting and subs - World Cup law changes explained
Summary
FIFA has introduced 11 new rule changes for the 2026 World Cup to speed up games and reduce mistakes by referees. These include time limits on goal-kicks, throw-ins, substitutions, and requirements for injured players to stay off the field for one minute to prevent timewasting.Key Facts
- The 2026 World Cup will use 11 new law changes focused on speeding up matches.
- Video assistant referees (VAR) will have more powers to help with decisions.
- Players have five seconds to restart play on goal-kicks and throw-ins or risk giving the ball to the other team.
- Substituted players must leave the field within 10 seconds, or their team must play with one fewer player until the next stoppage.
- Injured players receiving treatment on the field must stay off for one minute before returning.
- These laws aim to reduce timewasting and keep the game moving faster.
- The new rules will be applied not just at the World Cup but also in leagues like the Premier League and Scottish Premiership next season.
- Referee Pierluigi Collina, head of referees, is leading these changes to improve match flow and fairness.
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