IFAB Proposes Major Rule Changes for 2026 World Cup

Ahead of the 2026 World Cup, significant rule changes are being considered by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) and FIFA. Foremost among these is the proposal to eliminate penalty rebounds; if a penalty is missed—whether saved by the goalkeeper or hitting the goal frame—play would stop immediately, awarding a goal kick to the defending team, thus removing the opportunity for follow-up shots. This change aims to restore balance between penalty takers and goalkeepers, addressing concerns that current rules unfairly favor attackers and cause controversies such as encroachment. Additionally, IFAB is contemplating expanding Video Assistant Referee (VAR) powers to allow reviews of second yellow card decisions and incorrectly awarded corner kicks, provided these reviews can be conducted quickly and only in cases of clear errors. These proposals are part of a broader effort to modernize the game ahead of the expanded 48-team tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. While no final decisions have been made, momentum is building to implement these reforms in time for the 2026 World Cup.