World Cup 2026 bans goalkeeper tactical timeouts and expands VAR reviews
IFAB approved banning goalkeeper tactical timeouts at the 2026 World Cup, preventing players from leaving the field to confer with coaches when a keeper is injured (a move mirrored by the NWSL and enforced by referees). Separately, VAR will be able to review attacking fouls before the ball is in play on corners/free-kicks, potentially overturning or retaking plays; other tweaks include a red card for mouth-covering in confrontations and enhanced monitoring of grappling. Hydration breaks of three minutes per half remain to help speed up play and reduce stoppage time.