How FIFA World Cup rules on extra time and tiebreakers work for 2026
Summary
The 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup has updated rules for extra time, penalty shootouts, and ways to keep the game moving faster. Matches tied after regular time will have 30 minutes of extra time, followed by penalty kicks if still tied. New rules also speed up throw-ins, substitutions, and include hydration breaks.Key Facts
- Each match lasts 90 minutes, split into two 45-minute halves with additional stoppage time added.
- If a match is tied after 90 minutes in knockout rounds, 30 minutes of extra time is played in two 15-minute halves.
- If still tied after extra time, the game is decided by a penalty shootout consisting of five shots per team, then sudden death if needed.
- Group stage games can end in a draw and do not have extra time or penalty shootouts.
- The golden goal rule, where the first extra time goal wins immediately, was removed in 2004 due to negative feedback.
- New rules speed up the game by enforcing a 5-second countdown on slow throw-ins or goal kicks, and players must leave the field quickly after substitutions.
- Players receiving medical treatment must stay off the field for one minute after play resumes.
- Players can receive red cards for covering their mouths, leaving the pitch in protest, or if the whole team walks off, the team forfeits the match.
- Each half will include a mandatory three-minute hydration break 22 minutes into play.
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