Collina Reveals Strict Measures Against Time-Wasting and Player Behavior at 2026 World Cup

G. E (Elbotola)

31 May 2026at19:30

The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has announced a series of new refereeing initiatives and organizational changes set to be implemented at the 2026 World Cup finals in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Pierluigi Collina, chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee, explained that these regulations aim to make the game smoother by imposing specific penalties for deliberate time-wasting. The measures include stricter time limits on restarts of play and substitutions, mandatory water breaks, and enhanced penalties related to player behavior.

The tournament will implement precise time limits to ensure continuity of play. Players will be required to execute goal kicks and throw-ins within just 5 seconds. For substitutions, regulations stipulate a 10-second limit for the substituted player to leave the field, with exceptions for special cases such as injuries or security issues.

Collina emphasized the importance of this approach, stating: "Our goal is to eliminate as much as possible the interruptions that hinder the rhythm of the match." This is part of an ongoing effort to improve relations with players and enhance the fan experience.

The new regulations also aim to tighten penalties for unsporting behavior, including protesting referee decisions. A red card could be issued if players are seen covering their mouths during altercations with opponents. Regarding Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, the protocol will be developed to allow for the correction of clear errors, such as incorrect second yellow cards, cases of mistaken player identity, and wrongly awarded corner kicks. Collina affirmed, "We continue to work towards our goal of excluding the disruption of the match pace from confrontations as much as possible," with the aim of ensuring fairness and integrity on the pitch.

Further amendments include obliging players who receive medical care on the field to leave for one minute before being allowed to re-enter the game. Additionally, 3-minute water breaks will be implemented in the middle of each half of every match during the tournament to ensure player hydration. These breaks, typically occurring around the 22nd minute of each half depending on weather conditions, are part of broader efforts to combat time-wasting, discrimination, and enhance the overall competitiveness of the anticipated global event.

Q&A

What new rules will FIFA implement at the 2026 World Cup?

FIFA will implement several new rules at the 2026 World Cup to combat time-wasting and improve game flow. These include strict time limits for goal kicks, throw-ins, and substitutions, mandatory water breaks, and enhanced penalties for unsporting player behavior, aiming for a smoother match experience.

How will the new 2026 World Cup rules affect player behavior and game pace?

The new 2026 World Cup rules are designed to significantly affect player behavior and accelerate game pace. Stricter time limits on restarts and substitutions will reduce interruptions, while enhanced penalties, including potential red cards for covering mouths during altercations, aim to curb unsporting conduct and ensure fairness.

What are the future implications of FIFA's VAR protocol adjustments?

FIFA's VAR protocol adjustments aim to refine the technology's use by allowing corrections for clear errors, such as mistaken player identity or incorrect second yellow cards. This development seeks to enhance fairness and integrity on the pitch, ensuring VAR interventions are precise and minimize disruption to the match's rhythm.

FIFA World Cup