VAR officials reviewing a decision during an international football match.
FIFA is moving forward with a major upgrade to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a decision that could reshape how matches are officiated on the grandest stage.
Despite facing opposition from several leagues and football administrators, FIFA is determined to expand VAR’s authority — this time, to include corner-kick decisions.
Back in October, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) met to review possible changes to the VAR system.
While some improvements were approved, one proposal was firmly rejected:
Using VAR to assess corner-kick situations.
Domestic leagues and football bodies argued the change could lead to:
Longer match delays
More interruptions
A disrupted game flow that frustrates fans and coaches alike
Yet, FIFA appears ready to press ahead.
According to reports from BBC Sport, FIFA wants the new VAR upgrade implemented in time for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
This move highlights FIFA’s growing willingness to test new technologies on football’s biggest stage, even without full global approval.
If implemented, referees will be able to review corner-kick situations, opening the door to:
Checking for missed fouls
Identifying incorrect corner awards
Reviewing potential handball or off-ball infractions
Ensuring fairer decision-making during set-pieces
It’s a bold shift — and a controversial one.
While the corner-kick proposal sparked debate, IFAB did approve other VAR upgrades that will definitely be used during the tournament.
One major change:
This is expected to help referees make clearer disciplinary decisions in fast, chaotic match situations — especially as the World Cup expands to 48 teams.
If the corner-kick VAR expansion earns final approval, the 2026 World Cup could become a turning point in football officiating.
The upgrade promises more accuracy but might come at the cost of match rhythm — a trade-off that continues to divide fans, coaches, and football governing bodies.
One thing is certain:
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