Major VAR Changes Coming for the 2026 World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will introduce major changes to the use of VAR, as the IFAB prepares to expand video review into areas that were previously off-limits—most notably second yellow cards and incorrectly awarded corner kicks. The objective is to minimize decisive refereeing errors and enhance accuracy in critical match situations.

FIFA supports the initiative and plans to implement these changes during the tournament, similar to how the semiautomated offside technology was successfully tested at Qatar 2022. This time, the governing body hopes VAR can intervene in more game-changing moments while still preserving the natural flow of the match.

Discussions began internally in October, where the IFAB also reviewed proposals aimed at speeding up play. These include the introduction of a countdown for throw-ins and goal kicks, and stricter time controls on substitutions and injury stoppages. The intention is to increase pace and reduce dead time during matches.

However, one of the most impactful proposals involves allowing VAR to review second yellow card offenses — something that could prevent unjust expulsions and dramatically affect team strategy. Another revision under consideration is using video confirmation to determine which team caused the ball to go out for a corner kick, although some officials still question whether this is worth the potential interruption.

All signs indicate that the 2026 World Cup will become a testing ground for the future of refereeing. With these modifications, VAR could become a decisive tool not only for goals, penalties, reds, and offsides — but also for disciplinary decisions and possession-determining restarts. As FIFA pursues a more dynamic and more equitable tournament, these changes could fundamentally reshape how modern football is played and officiated.