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FIFA Pushes VAR Expansion and Referee Tech Upgrades for 2026 World Cup

Final approval rests with IFAB at its February meeting in Wales.

Overview

  • FIFA proposes allowing VAR to correct wrongly awarded corners and to review second yellow cards, expanding the current list of reviewable incidents.
  • Referee body‑worn cameras tested at the Club World Cup could be used to show broadcasters and in‑stadium screens what officials saw in critical moments.
  • An upgraded semi‑automated offside system was piloted to send quicker alerts directly to assistant referees to reduce delays.
  • Pierluigi Collina argued corner checks could be done within the 10–15 seconds typically available before the kick is taken.
  • Some IFAB voices, including English FA chief executive Mark Bullingham, have signaled opposition to broadening VAR’s scope.