FIFA is considering giving referees additional powers to penalise grappling and blocking during set pieces at the upcoming World Cup. The governing body is determined to prevent the ugly scenes that have marred Premier League matches this season, with discussions ongoing about how to enforce rules before corners are even taken.
The new directives, which have been discussed with managers, would encourage referees to be extra vigilant and strict on fouls such as blocking, holding, and pushing in the penalty area. One incident cited is England's friendly against Uruguay in March, where Ben White scored but Adam Wharton was accused of blocking José María Giménez. Emma Hayes, the USA women's boss, commented that such blocking is a foul nine times out of ten.
FIFA is also looking to avoid VAR controversies like the one that saw West Ham's late goal ruled out against Arsenal. The proposed measures could include awarding free-kicks, penalties, and even yellow or red cards for offences committed before the ball is in play, despite current laws stating non-violent offences can only be punished when the ball is in play.
Pascal Zuberbuhler, head of FIFA's World Cup Technical Study Group, expects referees to take a stronger stand. He acknowledged the difficulty for officials in spotting fouls among many players but expressed confidence in the tournament's referees. The new approach is being finalised at FIFA's headquarters in Zurich and could be implemented as a tournament-specific directive when match officials gather in Miami early next month.
