2026 World Cup to Introduce Drastic Rule Changes

FIFA World Cup 2026: IFAB approves major rule changes

IFAB has approved six rule changes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including expanded VAR powers, a visible 5-second countdown for throw-ins and goal-kicks, red cards for players covering their mouths, and mandatory hydration breaks per half. For sports media and broadcast tech teams, the stricter timing enforcement and VAR scope expansion will likely increase match data event density and real-time officiating complexity.