Declan Rice and Jarell Quansah have been handed a lifeline ahead of England's round of 32 clash against DR Congo, as FIFA's updated suspension rules wipe all single yellow cards after the group stage. The Arsenal midfielder and Liverpool defender were the only two England players to receive bookings during the tournament's opening phase.
Only two England players booked in group stage
Rice received a yellow card during England's 0-0 draw with Ghana, while Quansah was cautioned in the 2-0 victory over Panama. According to the standard FIFA disciplinary rules, accumulating two yellow cards would normally result in an automatic one-match suspension. This meant both players were at risk of missing a knockout fixture if they were booked again.
However, Rice also sat out the final group game against Panama primarily due to a minor fitness niggle, which conveniently protected him from picking up a potential second booking and a suspension.
FIFA's updated rulebook provides fresh start
Under the 2026 World Cup regulations, all single yellow cards are wiped clean at the conclusion of the group stage. This change is designed to prevent players from missing crucial knockout matches due to minor infractions accumulated during the opening games. According to FIFA, the amnesty gives every player a fresh start heading into the knockout rounds.
The expanded tournament format, featuring 48 teams, has prompted FIFA to carefully structure when disciplinary slates are wiped. Following the initial reset after the group games, another amnesty will take place for all players immediately after the quarter-finals. This second wipe ensures that no player can miss the World Cup final by accumulating single yellow cards. Under these rules, only a direct red card offence in the semi-finals would cause a player to miss the showpiece event.
Rice expected to start against DR Congo
Rice is expected to start the round of 32 clash against DR Congo on Wednesday. However, Quansah has been ruled out through injury, according to England's medical staff. The defensive duo can now tackle without the immediate threat of a one-game suspension hanging over their heads.
The updated rules have been welcomed by England fans, as both players can now fully commit to the knockout stages without fear of missing a potential final.
