FIFA has confirmed a set of rule changes set to be introduced ahead of the knockout phase of the 2026 FIFA World Cup to improve fairness, speed up match flow, and tighten officiating consistency.
One of the most notable adjustments involves a revised penalty shootout procedure. Instead of conducting two separate coin tosses, there will now be a single toss. The winning captain will choose either to take the first penalty or decide which end the shootout will be played at, while the opposing captain automatically receives the remaining option.
FIFA says the update is designed to simplify the process and reduce perceived imbalance in shootouts, pending final approval.
Additional changes target game management and time control. Stricter punishments will now be enforced for deliberate time-wasting, alongside countdown limits for restarts such as throw-ins and goal kicks.
The governing body is also expanding the use of VAR in key decision-making situations, aiming to reduce controversial calls in high-stakes knockout matches.
Another key amendment involves player conduct during matches. Players who attempt to hide tactical communication by covering their mouths while speaking to teammates or officials will now face tougher enforcement measures as part of efforts to improve transparency on the pitch.
In a move likely to influence squad strategy, yellow-card accumulations will now be wiped after the quarter-finals, reducing the risk of players missing the semi-finals due to minor disciplinary records.
The updated regulations are expected to come into force before the Round of 32 begins, ensuring that the remainder of the tournament is played under the revised framework as teams push toward the final.