NEW YORK: FIFA is set to introduce several major rule changes at the FIFA World Cup 2026 in North America, including mandatory hydration breaks, expanded VAR reviews and stricter measures against time-wasting and player misconduct.
The new regulations continue FIFA’s trend of modernizing football rules after the introduction of yellow and red cards in 1970, VAR at the 2018 World Cup and extended stoppage time during the 2022 Qatar tournament.
Under the updated rules, every match will include mandatory three-minute hydration breaks midway through each half, regardless of weather conditions or whether stadium roofs are closed.
FIFA said the decision was made to support player welfare and ensure equal playing conditions across all matches.
The tournament will also see the expansion of the Video Assistant Referee system. VAR will now be allowed to review second yellow-card dismissals and incorrectly awarded corner kicks, provided reviews can be completed quickly without delaying play.
The International Football Association Board said the changes are intended to improve decision-making accuracy during matches.
Countdown timers will also be introduced for goal-kicks, throw-ins and substitutions in an effort to reduce time-wasting. Teams could lose possession if restarts are delayed beyond the allowed time.
Goalkeepers already face an eight-second limit for holding the ball, with violations resulting in a corner kick for the opposing team.
Under another new rule, substituted players will have 10 seconds to leave the field after their number is displayed. If they fail to exit in time, their replacement will not be allowed to enter until the next stoppage in play.
FIFA has also announced stricter disciplinary measures for player conduct. Players who cover their mouths during confrontational situations with opponents may face red cards, while teams whose players walk off the field in protest risk forfeiting matches.
The changes come ahead of what is expected to be the largest FIFA World Cup in history, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.