The use of VAR in football has been expanded to include second yellow card incidents and corner kicks in preparation for the upcoming World Cup following a meeting of the sport’s governing body on Saturday. The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has also given the green light to a set of strategies aimed at addressing time-wasting tactics.
While concerns exist regarding potential disruptions to the game’s rhythm, VAR is poised to play a more comprehensive role at the World Cup. Currently, only straight red card decisions are subject to VAR scrutiny, as opposed to cases involving two cautionable offenses.
IFAB has specified that wrongly awarded corners can be overturned through VAR reviews if the process can be swiftly completed without impeding the game’s flow. Implementing countdowns for goal-kicks, throw-ins, and player substitutions is intended to deter time-wasting practices. Failure to adhere to the specified time limits during these actions could result in possession changing hands or delays in player substitutions.
Players will be required to exit the field within 10 seconds of their substitution number being displayed. If they exceed this time limit, they must still leave the field promptly, but the replacement player can only enter the game during the next break in play after a minimum of one minute has elapsed.
Furthermore, players receiving medical attention that halts play must exit the field for a full minute of game time before being permitted to rejoin play. These rule adjustments, endorsed at a meeting in Cardiff, are scheduled to be integrated into the official laws of the game from July 1, with immediate implementation at the upcoming World Cup starting on June 11.
IFAB is also set to engage in consultations regarding protocols for players leaving the field in protest against referee decisions and for instances where players cover their mouths while engaging with opponents during matches.
Recent incidents, such as the Africa Cup of Nations final delay due to a team protest and allegations of racial abuse involving Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior during a Champions League match, highlight the importance of ongoing efforts to maintain fair play and respect on the field. The IFAB has taken steps to address such issues, including the temporary suspension of individuals pending investigations into their conduct.