VAR, timewasting and subs – World Cup law changes explained

VAR, Timewasting, and Substitutions: World Cup Law Changes Explained

FIFA's 2026 World Cup Rule Reforms

VAR timewasting and subs - The 2026 World Cup introduces 11 groundbreaking rule adjustments, marking a historic event in multiple aspects. Among the changes, the number of referees has expanded to 51, with Pierluigi Collina, head of referees, emphasizing the need for faster gameplay and fewer pivotal errors. These reforms aim to streamline matches, ensuring the flow remains intact, and will soon influence domestic leagues like the Premier League, English Football League, and Scottish Premiership.

VAR Enhancements for Precision

Central to the new regulations is the amplified role of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). This system will now have additional authority to correct clear and obvious errors, particularly in critical moments. The goal is to minimize match-altering mistakes, which have been a recurring issue in recent tournaments. Collina has long advocated for precision, noting that in the 2022 Qatar World Cup, matches often stretched beyond 100 minutes due to stoppage time additions. For instance, England’s 6-2 victory over Iran included 24 minutes of added time.

"Fixing timewasting has been one of Collina's top issues for quite a few years."

Substitution Time Limits

Substitution rules have been tightened to prevent delays. Players must exit the field within 10 seconds of the restart, or the substitute will be delayed for at least a minute. This change was tested in World Cup warm-ups, where injured players were required to stay off for a full minute. A notable example occurred during Japan’s friendly against Iceland on May 31, when a delayed substitution left Iceland with 10 men for over two minutes.

Exceptions exist for severe injuries, such as concussions, or when a player is booked or sent off. The rule also allows immediate return for substitutions involving goalkeepers or outfield players who collide. However, some critics argue that the one-minute limit might unfairly penalize players genuinely hurt, potentially discouraging them from seeking treatment.

Time-Wasting Deterrents

To address prolonged stoppages, goal-kick and throw-in restarts now include a five-second countdown. Referees will initiate this when a player deliberately delays the game, which could result in a corner or throw-in for the opposing team. This approach replaces the previous eight-second rule for goalkeepers, offering a visible signal through hand movements to enforce urgency.

"Players who required treatment in the World Cup warm-ups were the first to experience being told to stay off the field for one minute."

FIFA had previously tested a two-minute substitution delay at the Arab Cup in December, but domestic leagues, including the Premier League and EFL, lobbied for a shorter timeframe. A compromise of one minute was reached, set to become standard in all leagues next season. This shift aims to discourage unnecessary delays while maintaining fairness in critical moments.

The reforms reflect a broader effort to modernize the game, balancing strict enforcement with player flexibility. As the 2026 tournament approaches, fans and teams alike will need to adapt to these new dynamics, which may redefine the pace and precision of international football.