The 2026 World Cup will not only bring a new format, with 48 participating teams, but also a number of important regulation changes.
FIFA has announced several measures aimed at reducing time lost during matches, increasing discipline on the pitch and giving referees the ability to more easily correct certain errors.
The new rules cover both player behavior and procedures related to substitutions, medical interventions and the use of the VAR system. Thus, at the World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, fans will not only see more teams and more matches, but also a set of rules that could change the way games are played at the most important tournament in world football.
The new rules for the 2026 World Cup
FIFA has confirmed several rule changes that will apply to the 2026 World Cup. These include:
- There will be a five-second countdown for goal clearances and throw-ins;
- Field players will not be allowed to enter the technical areas while the goalkeeper is receiving medical attention;
- Changes must be made within a maximum of 10 seconds; otherwise, the introduced player will have to wait one minute before entering the court;
- Field players receiving medical treatment will be required to remain off the field for one minute after play resumes;
- There will be three-minute hydration breaks in each half;
- VAR will be able to intervene for fouls committed before the ball goes into play in phases leading to goals, penalties or disciplinary sanctions;
- VAR will be able to correct wrongly awarded yellow cards and corner kick decisions;
- Players covering their mouths during confrontational discussions with opponents or referees may be ejected;
- A red card will be given to players who leave the field in protest of the referees’ decisions;
SCHEDULE of the World Cup 2026
- June 11-27: Group phase
- June 28 – July 3: Round of 16
- July 3-7: The best finals
- July 9-12: The quarter finals
- July 14-15: semifinals
- July 18: The small final
- July 19: The grand final, at MetLife Stadium in New York / New Jersey
There will be 5 days without matches during the tournament: July 8, 12, 13, 16 and 17.
