FIFA announces new rules for the 2026 World Cup

FIFA has announced several major rule changes that will be implemented at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada, Tribuna reports.

The new regulations aim to improve the flow of the game and reduce wasted time.

A substituted player will have a maximum of 10 seconds to leave the field of play. If it takes longer, his replacement must wait 1 minute before entering, leaving the team with 10 players for that period.

A 5-second timer will be applied to throw-ins and goal kicks. Beating the clock will result in opponents gaining possession.

Any player receiving medical attention on the field must leave the field of play and wait one minute before returning, unless the injury was caused by a foul that resulted in a card.

VAR will now review incorrectly awarded corner kicks. Only the team captain can approach the referee to ask for explanations.

Other players surrounding the referee risk receiving a yellow card.