Fifa set to trial new VAR powers, including corner kick decisions, at 2026 World Cup
Soccer’s ruling body FIFA is expected to receive special dispensation to give VAR officials increased authority at next year’s World Cup, including the power to intervene on corner kick decisions, something they have never been allowed to do before.
The 2026 World Cup will take place in North America from June 11th to July 19th, with the US hosting the majority of the matches, while Canada and Mexico act as co-hosts.
According to The Times, football’s lawmakers are preparing to let FIFA test these extended VAR powers on a temporary basis during the tournament.
If successful, the changes could influence how VAR is used in other major competitions, including the UK’s Premier League.
VAR for high stakes decision making
Senior figures inside FIFA have argued that in a tournament where the stakes are so high, officials must be able to correct any decision that could alter the course of a match.
They believe that VAR should have the authority to overturn a wrongly awarded corner – a seemingly small error that could still lead to a match-changing goal – and to review a second yellow card to ensure that a sending off is unquestionably correct.
The proposals, however, are controversial. Expanding VAR’s remit, especially to something as common as corner kicks, risks slowing the game even further.
UEFA is said to be strongly opposed to any such additions, expressing concern that extra checks would increase delays and heighten frustration among fans who already feel the process is too intrusive.
If approved, the new rules would come into force from June 1st, just ahead of the opening match.
The VAR – Video Assistant Referee system – was introduced at elite level in 2017 and made its World Cup debut in 2018 in Russia.
It comprises a small team of video officials who work from a video room using multiple camera angles, slow motion replays and offside tracking technology to help the on-field referee make accurate decisions.
The technology currently covers goals, penalties, direct red cards and cases of mistaken identity, meaning the 2026 World Cup could see its most significant expansion yet.
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