FIFA Expands VAR Powers for 2026 World Cup to Monitor Attacking Fouls

G. E (Elbotola)

01 June 2026at08:15

The International Football Association Board (IFAB), through FIFA, has announced an expansion of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system's powers for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, set to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This new amendment aims to allow VAR officials to review potential attacking fouls, particularly instances of obstruction that occur before the ball is put back into play during set-pieces such as corner kicks or free-kicks.

Pierluigi Collina, Chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee, clarified that this change seeks to ensure fairness and prevent goals from being awarded when defenders are illegally prevented from performing their defensive duties. The Italian official, during his presentation of these new refereeing amendments, stressed the necessity of tackling such practices. Collina stated, "We find it totally unfair that a goal is scored when a defender is prevented from defending," adding that the amendments will come into effect with the start of the tournament.

This initiative precedes the World Cup's kickoff on June 11, 2026, when the expanded powers will be applied to monitor challenges that occur prior to the actual execution of corner kicks. As part of the preparations for the global event, which will feature 48 teams, FIFA has also issued additional instructions concerning attempts to exploit medical interventions for goalkeepers, which are sometimes used to give teammates an opportunity to receive technical instructions during stoppages. This reflects the international body's commitment to regulating all aspects of the game.

In this context, it is worth noting that some clubs, such as Arsenal, have made set-pieces a distinctive part of their playing style, which has sparked debate regarding tactics employed in the penalty area. The global tournament is scheduled to continue until July 19, with a record number of national teams participating in a version hosted by three countries, aiming to ensure refereeing fairness in set-piece situations.

Q&A

What new VAR powers will be implemented for the 2026 World Cup?

The 2026 World Cup will see expanded VAR powers allowing officials to review attacking fouls, specifically obstruction during set-pieces like corner kicks or free-kicks. This aims to prevent goals scored when defenders are illegally impeded.

Why is FIFA expanding VAR's ability to monitor attacking fouls?

FIFA is expanding VAR's ability to monitor attacking fouls to ensure fairness and prevent goals from being awarded when defenders are illegally obstructed. This change addresses tactics that impede defensive duties during set-piece situations.

When will the new VAR rules for attacking fouls take effect?

The new VAR rules for attacking fouls will take effect at the start of the 2026 World Cup. This initiative aims to regulate all aspects of the game, ensuring refereeing fairness in set-piece situations throughout the tournament.

FIFA World Cup