The World Cup of Calvinball: Fifa’s hasty changes turn refereeing into a free-for-all | Beau Dure
Summary
The article discusses how changes in FIFA’s rules during the World Cup have caused confusion and inconsistent refereeing. It compares this to the fictional chaotic game Calvinball and explains how last-minute rule changes, like the “mistaken identity” rule for yellow and red cards, have affected the matches.Key Facts
- Calvinball is a fictional game with changing, unclear rules from the comic Calvin and Hobbes.
- FIFA often applies new football laws at the World Cup before they are widely tested in other tournaments.
- The World Cup referee decisions sometimes seem inconsistent due to different interpretations of fouls worldwide.
- In 2022, simple rule changes like allowing five substitutions were introduced smoothly.
- The “mistaken identity” rule changed to allow referees to correct who receives yellow or red cards after reviewing.
- This new rule has changed outcomes in games, such as Paraguay’s Miguel Almirón getting booked instead of Tim Ream, and Switzerland’s Breel Embolo being sent off.
- VAR (video assistant referee) technology helps review decisions but still faces criticism from fans.
- FIFA shares law-making with the International Football Association Board and must decide when rule changes are implemented.
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