FIFA is reportedly expanding the powers of video assistant referees (VAR) for the 2026 World Cup to include rulings on second yellow cards and corner kick decisions.
What was once supposed to be a simple way to correct “clear and obvious” refereeing errors has evolved into one of the most divisive new additions to soccer. VAR continues to come under fire for time delays and head-scratching decisions across Europe’s top leagues, most recently when Liverpool skipper Virgil van Dijk’s goal against Manchester City was controversially disallowed.
Despite the seemingly omnipresent scrutiny, VAR is set to have even more authority in the upcoming World Cup. report soccer’s lawmakers will give the green light for VAR to use extra powers on a trial basis in sport’s biggest tournament next summer.
Along with covering goals, penalties, red cards and mistaken identities, VAR will also be able to review second yellow cards and intervene if they believe a corner kick has been mistakenly awarded. The goal is to avoid any glaring errors that could impact the outcome of a World Cup match.
The proposed changes are expected to be submitted ahead of the International Football Association Board’s (IFAB) Annual Business Meeting in January.
