FIFA will introduce compulsory three-minute hydration breaks at the midpoint of each half in every match at the 2026 World Cup, regardless of weather or stadium conditions. The breaks will be called by referees to ensure equal conditions for all teams, with FIFA stating, "There will be no weather or temperature condition in place" for the breaks [1, 2].
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will expand its scope at the tournament to allow reviews of second yellow card incidents that lead to red cards and clear errors in awarding corner kicks. These changes were announced by the IFAB earlier this year and officially revealed by FIFA on May 23 [1, 2].
Timers will be introduced to reduce time-wasting for goal-kicks, throw-ins, and substitutions. Possession will switch to the opposing team if players exceed the allotted time. Goalkeepers must release the ball within eight seconds of control or concede a corner to the opposition [1].
For substitutions, players must leave the field within 10 seconds after being signaled on the substitution board. If they do not, the substitute waiting to enter must delay entry until the next stoppage plus at least one additional minute [2].
FIFA clarified disciplinary rules related to player conduct during confrontations, stating players covering their mouths while speaking can be issued red cards, a measure prompted by a recent racial abuse incident in the UEFA Champions League [2]. Additionally, players or team staff leaving the field in protest risk a red card and potential forfeiture if the match cannot continue [2].
The new rules will be enforced during the 2026 World Cup matches hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, spanning November to December 2026 [1, 2].
