VAR Could Extend to Corner Kicks at 2026 World Cup

The International Football Association Board (IFAB), the body responsible for determining the Laws of the Game, is considering allowing FIFA to test the application of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology to corner kicks at the 2026 World Cup. This potential move raises concerns about a possible increase in stoppage time during matches.

English media outlets have reported that VAR technology at the World Cup could expand to include the evaluation of corner kicks. IFAB is reportedly reviewing current procedures to grant competitions the authority to conduct tests for new rule changes in their matches. If approved, the World Cup could become the first tournament to implement this change and utilize VAR for corner kicks.

IFAB currently introduces its new ideas in minor or lower-tier competitions. However, with this proposed amendment, FIFA could alter the rules and introduce this specific detail in the upcoming summer tournament. Consequently, VAR would be used to determine if the ball has fully crossed the goal line or which team last touched the ball before it went out of play.

The significance of this development suggests that VAR could potentially cover any type of controversy. Corner kick incidents, along with second yellow cards or offsides leading to a corner kick that results in a goal, are among the plays IFAB is evaluating for the future of VAR technology.

Opposition to this measure primarily revolves around the issue of time-wasting. VAR reviews have become increasingly complex, and adding more plays where the main referee must consult the video assistant referee (VAR) room would only lead to further delays and slow down the pace of matches.

IFAB convenes every March, and it will then become clear whether they will adopt this measure. Subsequently, the opportunity will be open for any competition to conduct tests in its own matches.

Ultimately, FIFA will be the body to decide whether it wishes for VAR to evaluate corner kicks at the World Cup. FIFA President Gianni Infantino and his organization have consistently advocated for conducting tests and introducing technology into competitions, as demonstrated by the use of semi-automated offside technology at the World Cup in Qatar.