The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has approved a series of significant changes to the Laws of the Game, set to be implemented at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and from the 2026-2027 season. The tournament begins on June 11.

FIFA Chief Refereeing Officer Pierluigi Collina stated that the amendments aim to tackle discrimination, reduce time-wasting, and enhance match tempo. A key change is the introduction of a red card for players who cover their mouths with hands, arms, or shirts while making discriminatory remarks. This follows an incident where Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni was accused of making slurs against Vinicius Jr.

Players leaving the field to protest a referee's decision will also be shown a red card. Teams causing a match to be abandoned will forfeit the game, a rule prompted by Senegal's walk-off in the Africa Cup of Nations final.

To speed up play, referees will use a five-second visual countdown for throw-ins and goal kicks. If the ball is not in play within that time, possession is awarded to the opposing team. Substituted players must leave the field within 10 seconds.

Outfield players receiving medical treatment must leave the field for one minute after play resumes. Exceptions include goalkeepers, serious injuries, and players taking a penalty.

VAR protocols are expanded to review red cards after a second yellow card, incorrectly awarded corner kicks, and fouls committed before the ball is in play.

A three-minute hydration break will be held around the 22nd minute of each half, with referees given flexibility to adjust timing based on match events.

Source: www.aljazeera.com