FIFA has introduced a series of strict new regulations aimed at reducing time-wasting and improving the flow of play at the 2026 World Cup in North America.
The measures, confirmed on Wednesday, introduce countdown clocks and harsher sanctions for deliberate delays.
Key changes include a five-second countdown for throw-ins and goal-kicks. If a player deliberately delays the restart, the throw-in will be awarded to the opposing team, while a delayed goal-kick could result in a corner being given instead.
Substitutions will now be tightly controlled. Replaced players have only 10 seconds to leave the pitch at the nearest point. Failure to do so will prevent the substitute from entering for at least one minute, forcing the team to play with 10 players during that period.
Players receiving off-field medical treatment must remain off the pitch for 60 seconds, with limited exceptions for goalkeepers, serious injuries, or when an opponent is cautioned or sent off.
In a notable disciplinary tightening, any player who covers their mouth while confronting an opponent in a confrontational manner could be shown a straight red card.
VAR will now be allowed to review the award of corners, though this must be done quickly before play restarts. Additionally, second yellow cards leading to a sending-off can be reviewed, but potential second yellows will not be subject to review.
The new rules form part of FIFA’s broader efforts to make matches faster and fairer ahead of the expanded 48-team tournament.
