🚩 VAR shake-up: more influence on corners and red cards at the World Cup | OneFootball

According to The Times, the video assistant referee system (VAR) is set to receive a significant expansion of its powers in the 2026 World Cup, including the ability to intervene in corner kick decisions and the review of second yellow cards leading to expulsions.

FIFA is seeking a special dispensation from the IFAB to test these additional powers, highlighting the organization's commitment to maximum accuracy in the highest-level tournament.

FIFA argues that, given how much is at stake in a World Cup, it is crucial to ensure accuracy in decisions that could change the course of the match.

An incorrectly awarded corner or a wrongful expulsion due to a double booking could alter the outcome of a final. Therefore, video referees would be allowed to review these plays, although it is unlikely that these changes will be implemented in leagues like the Premier League next season.

The use of VAR to confirm or overturn second yellow cards has widespread support within football. In fact, the IFAB plans to discuss this point at its January meeting, with the expectation that its inclusion in the VAR protocol will be approved in the short term.

However, the ability of VAR to review corner kicks generates much more controversy. There is concern that adding more reviewable decisions could significantly increase interruptions and delays in the game.

In this regard, UEFA has already expressed its total opposition to incorporating this prerogative into the broader use protocol of VAR in its competitions.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

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