Football's lawmakers have extended the powers of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in moves that are likely to spark further debate. The International Football Association Board (IFAB) approved the changes at its annual general meeting in Wales on Saturday, allowing VAR to review corner kicks, second yellow cards, and cases where a card is issued to the wrong team.
From July 1, competitions can choose to use VAR to check corners, though officials insist checks must not delay the kick and will only be used for obvious errors. The core VAR protocol has also been widened to cover second yellows incorrectly awarded, but VARs will not advise referees to issue a second yellow where one was not shown.
IFAB also approved measures to curb time-wasting tactics. Referees will now count down five seconds if players delay throw-ins or goal kicks, and substitutions must be completed within 10 seconds, otherwise the substitute must wait at least one minute before entering. The successful introduction of the eight-second rule for goalkeepers prompted further action to maintain game tempo.
Players whose injuries cause stoppages will also face a mandatory one-minute spell off the field. The Premier League trialled 30 seconds, but IFAB felt longer was needed as a deterrent. All measures aim to reduce added time for stoppages, benefiting player welfare, fans, and broadcasters.
The changes will be adopted at this summer's World Cup, which starts on June 11. IFAB also agreed to trial further measures to address goalkeeper tactical injury delays and to consult on penalties for players leaving the pitch in protest or covering their mouths when confronting opponents.
