Football’s lawmakers eye major VAR overhaul before 2026 World Cup

Football’s rule makers are reportedly weighing sweeping changes to the use of Video Assistant Referees (VAR) and other aspects of the game ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as global pressure mounts to improve the consistency and flow of matches.

According to sources close to the International Football Association Board (IFAB), discussions are underway to reform how and when VAR can intervene, amid widespread criticism of delays, confusion, and controversial decisions in top-tier football.

With the biggest World Cup in history set to be staged across Canada, Mexico, and the United States next summer, IFAB is understood to be considering tweaks that would streamline decision-making and restore confidence in officiating.

One key proposal being debated involves limiting VAR interventions to only “clear and obvious” errors in goal decisions, penalties, straight red cards, and mistaken identity — the areas VAR was originally designed to support. Under the potential revision, marginal offsides and subjective handball calls might be deprioritised or more tightly defined to avoid excessive delays.

Growing Frustration Across Football

The move follows growing frustration from players, coaches, and fans alike over what many see as VAR overreach. Matches across Europe’s top leagues and international tournaments have frequently been overshadowed by long pauses, controversial offside lines, and inconsistent handball rulings.

“The game is being hijacked by technology,” one top coach told BBC Sport anonymously. “We need clarity and consistency — not chaos.”

In recent months, calls for reform have grown louder, especially after several high-profile errors in the UEFA Champions League and domestic leagues. The Premier League, in particular, has faced a barrage of criticism over its implementation of the technology.

Other Potential Reforms

Beyond VAR, IFAB is also reviewing a range of other proposals, including:

• Timed Sin Bins for dissent or cynical fouls, mirroring rules used in youth or amateur football.




• Increased transparency in VAR decisions, such as allowing stadium announcements or referee microphones.



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  • Tighter time limits on VAR reviews to prevent prolonged stoppages.

  
  

  • More lenient interpretations of handball and offside, especially when there's no deliberate advantage gained.

  IFAB typically meets twice a year to discuss and test new regulations. While no decisions are final, any approved changes would likely be trialled during domestic competitions before being implemented globally.

  2026 World Cup: A Turning Point?

  The 2026 World Cup — already historic as the first to feature 48 teams and three host nations — could become a watershed moment for modernising football’s rules. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has previously supported innovations that “protect the spirit of the game” while embracing necessary evolution.

  The next IFAB Annual General Meeting is scheduled for early 2025, when formal proposals could be adopted ahead of the World Cup kickoff in June 2026.

  For fans, players, and managers alike, the next year could reshape how the game is officiated on the biggest stage.