Here’s what you need to know about FIFA World Cup 2026’s new rules
These changes represent one of the most significant efforts in recent years to make football faster, fairer, and more entertaining.
A new set of rules designed to speed up matches, reduce time-wasting, and improve the overall flow of the game has been unveiled by the International Football Association Board.
Delaying throw-ins and goal kicks? That will be costly. If a throw-in isn’t taken before a visible five-second countdown ends, possession will be awarded to the opposing team. And if a goal kick is delayed beyond the five-second countdown, the opposition will be given a corner kick. The aim is to get the ball back in play faster.
Watch the video to find out more about the new rules for the World Cup 2026, which is underway in the United States.