Wider VAR scope and more countdowns for World Cup

"Corners and second yellow cards will be added to the scope of the video assistant referee (VAR) for this summer's World Cup. Measures to address loss of tempo in matches and cut down on time-wasting will also be introduced, including new countdowns on goal-kicks, throw-ins and substitutions."

"Fifa has strongly supported expanding the remit of VAR when it can quickly fix decisions that are clearly wrong. However, many leagues had said measures that could increase delays would not be acceptable. That was particularly the case for corners. Fifa was adamant it wanted to review corners at the World Cup and argued strongly for it."

"Ifab will also stage trials with a view to finding ways to stop 'tactical timeouts' prompted by goalkeepers having on-field treatment. There was more support for the idea VAR should look at incorrectly awarded second yellow cards."

The International Football Association Board approved significant changes to football regulations at its annual meeting in Wales. VAR will expand to cover corners and second yellow card decisions starting June 1 for the 2026-27 season. New countdowns will be implemented for goal-kicks, throw-ins, and substitutions to address match tempo loss and time-wasting. While FIFA strongly supported VAR expansion for corners, many leagues opposed it due to potential delays, making it optional for leagues. The Premier League is unlikely to adopt corner reviews, while Serie A is expected to. Additional trials will examine offside rule modifications and measures to prevent players from covering their mouths during confrontations with opponents, following a racial abuse incident involving Vinicius Jr.

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