Key Changes in the Rules of the 2026 World Cup: Yellow Cards and Sanctions in Focus

FIFA introduces fundamental changes for the 2026 World Cup: elimination of yellow cards in critical moments and new disciplinary sanctions.

New yellow card system

In the 2026 World Cup, two thresholds for card accumulation will be implemented, avoiding suspensions in key stages like round of 16 and semifinals. This measure aims to protect the tournament's key players.

Reasons behind the change

The increase in participating teams to 48 and the new knockout phase justify the need to reduce the risk of sanctions due to yellow card accumulation, ensuring fair and exciting play until the end.

New sanctions and prohibited behaviors

FIFA tightens rules against protests and unsportsmanlike conduct, such as leaving the field as a sign of protest or covering the mouth while arguing with referees. These actions may lead to harsher penalties.

Significant decisions

In addition to the rule changes, important determinations for future tournaments were confirmed, like organizing youth events and the possibility of requiring U-20 players in teams.

Presidential elections and the future of football

The FIFA elections for the 2027-2031 term will be held during the 77th Congress, marking a milestone in the organization's leadership. These modifications aim for a historic World Cup full of innovations.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Cambios clave en las reglas del Mundial 2026: tarjetas amarillas y sanciones en el foco