According to reports from The Times and The Sun, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) is considering three significant rule changes that could be implemented in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup:
- No Rebounds After Saved Penalties
Under the proposed rule, play would be immediately halted if a goalkeeper saves a penalty. This would eliminate the possibility of follow-up attempts by the penalty taker or other players entering the box after the initial save. - VAR to Overturn Unjustified Corners
Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology could be used to cancel incorrectly awarded corner kicks, adding a new layer of accuracy to match officiating. - VAR Review for Second Yellow Cards
VAR may also be authorized to review and potentially overturn a second yellow card that would otherwise lead to a red card and ejection from the match.
These proposals are still under discussion and must first be officially presented at the next IFAB meeting scheduled for November. A final vote will take place in March 2026. If approved, the changes will take effect on June 1, 2026—just days before the World Cup begins.
What’s your take on these potential rule changes? Could they redefine the game as we know it?