World Cup 2026
FIFA Accused Of Bending The Rules As Cristiano Ronaldo Escapes Full World Cup Ban
FIFA Accused Of Bending The Rules As Cristiano Ronaldo Escapes Full World Cup Ban
FIFA has once again found itself in the middle of a global storm — and this time, it’s not about VAR, politics, or format changes. It’s about Cristiano Ronaldo, a red card, and a decision that has left millions questioning whether the rules truly apply to everyone.
What began as a routine World Cup qualifier between Portugal and Ireland quickly turned into another controversial chapter in Ronaldo’s long career. A frustrated elbow to the back of Dara O’Shea earned him a straight red, and by the book, that should have meant a three-match suspension — including the first two games of the 2026 World Cup.
But “by the book” and “FIFA” rarely walk hand in hand.
The Incident That Sparked The Chaos
In Dublin, with Portugal trailing 2–0 and running out of answers, Ronaldo reacted to O’Shea by thrusting his elbow into the defender’s back. The referee initially flashed a yellow, but VAR quickly intervened and upgraded it to a red — as it should have.
Ronaldo, being Ronaldo, gestured that O’Shea exaggerated the contact, then bizarrely blamed Ireland’s coach Heimir Hallgrimsson for “influencing the referee.”
Spoiler: he didn’t.
Hallgrimsson later revealed:
“This was just a moment of a little silliness from him… It was his action that cost him the red card.”
And normally, it would cost him a three-match ban too.
Enter FIFA — And The Plot Twist Nobody Was Surprised By
When FIFA’s disciplinary committee sat down to decide Ronaldo’s fate, the world braced itself. There was no way the most marketable footballer on the planet would be sidelined for the first two games of the World Cup… right?
Right.
FIFA announced that Ronaldo would serve only one match, while the remaining two would be suspended — essentially put on probation for one year. If he commits a similar offense, he’ll serve the extra matches immediately.
Unprecedented? Yes.
Unexpected? Absolutely not.
Commercially, Ronaldo might be the single biggest ticket seller for FIFA’s new-era World Cup in North America. His influence, reach, and celebrity status make headlines, draw sponsors, and fill stadiums.
And conveniently, he was photographed days before the verdict at the White House with Gianni Infantino, Donald Trump, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
So much for subtlety.
Why Fans Are Furious
From the Club World Cup invitation given to Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami last year — despite not meeting qualification criteria — to this Ronaldo ruling, fans are worried that football is becoming more entertainment than sport.
The World Cup is supposed to be sacred.
Equal rules.
Equal consequences.
Equal respect for the game.
But exceptions for superstars? That’s where the outrage begins.
For many supporters and pundits, this isn’t about Ronaldo being “too big to punish.” It’s about whether FIFA is willing to sacrifice the integrity of the biggest tournament on earth just to maximize profits.
Where Does This Leave Portugal?
With Ronaldo cleared to play all group-stage matches, Portugal can breathe easier. He remains crucial to their star-studded attack, and on the pitch, his experience is invaluable.
But off the pitch?
This decision has created a wave of criticism that FIFA may struggle to escape.
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World Cup 2026
Donald Trump, Village People & A Wild 2026 World Cup Draw: What To Expect At Football’s Most Unpredictable Night
Donald Trump, Village People & A World Cup Draw Like No Other
The 2026 FIFA World Cup draw is gearing up to be one of the most dramatic pre-tournament ceremonies ever — even before a single ball is kicked. And if you think you’ve seen chaos in football, wait until you mix the President of the United States, the Village People, global football stars, and a full-world spotlight at the Kennedy Center.
Set in Washington, this year’s draw promises music, politics, spectacle, and a dash of unpredictability. And leading the script? None other than Donald Trump himself.
Trump Meets The Village People: A Reunion Nobody Expected
In an unexpected twist, the iconic disco group Village People will perform their evergreen hit “YMCA” live — right in front of the president who turned the song into a rally anthem.
Trump has danced to the track countless times at his political events, but not everyone from the original lineup is thrilled.
Former member Jim Newman made it clear: the classic group he belonged to “would never, ever perform at a Trump rally.” Still, the show must go on, and the crowd at the Kennedy Center will be watching every second of this unusual reunion.
Star-Studded Night: Robbie Williams, Andrea Bocelli, Nicole Scherzinger
The guest list reads like a global entertainment festival.
The White House confirmed Trump will attend the ceremony alongside top-tier performers including:
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Robbie Williams
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Andrea Bocelli
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Nicole Scherzinger
Hosting duties will be handled by Kevin Hart, Heidi Klum, and Danny Ramirez, ensuring the night stays lively, humorous, and unpredictable.
FIFA will also unveil its new “Peace Prize” before the group pairings for the 48-team tournament are announced — another first for a World Cup ceremony.
Trump’s Growing Presence In Global Football
Trump’s involvement in football events has been anything but ordinary.
From lingering awkwardly on stage during Chelsea’s Club World Cup trophy lift, to baffling Juventus players with a question about women joining the men’s team, to posting an AI-generated video of himself and Cristiano Ronaldo playing football — the president has become a global sideshow of sporting unpredictability.
Now, that same unpredictability is heading straight into the 2026 World Cup draw.
A Draw Night Full Of Drama, Music & Football
This year’s ceremony blends entertainment with anticipation.
Between the “YMCA” performance, Hollywood-level hosting, Trump’s unpredictable moments, and the long-awaited group draw, the world will be glued to their screens.
As the global football community shifts its focus to 2026, one thing is guaranteed: this World Cup draw will be talked about for years.
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World Cup 2026
FIFA To Expand VAR Rules For The 2026 World Cup With New Corner-Kick Reviews
FIFA Pushes Major VAR Expansion For 2026 World Cup — Corner-Kick Reviews Included
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.
IFAB Initially Rejected VAR Reviews For Corners
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:
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Longer match delays
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More interruptions
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A disrupted game flow that frustrates fans and coaches alike
Yet, FIFA appears ready to press ahead.
FIFA Is Determined To Implement The Corner-Kick Rule
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:
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Checking for missed fouls
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Identifying incorrect corner awards
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Reviewing potential handball or off-ball infractions
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Ensuring fairer decision-making during set-pieces
It’s a bold shift — and a controversial one.
VAR’s Scope Is Already Set To Grow In 2026
While the corner-kick proposal sparked debate, IFAB did approve other VAR upgrades that will definitely be used during the tournament.
One major change:
VAR Can Review Second Yellow Cards That May Turn Into Red Cards
This is expected to help referees make clearer disciplinary decisions in fast, chaotic match situations — especially as the World Cup expands to 48 teams.
What This Means For Football
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:
FIFA is embracing deeper technological influence in football, and the 2026 World Cup will be the testing ground.
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World Cup 2026
Cristiano Ronaldo Tipped To Play For Portugal Beyond 2026 World Cup, Says Wes Brown
Cristiano Ronaldo Could Continue Playing For Portugal After 2026, Says Wes Brown
Cristiano Ronaldo may not be finished with international football just yet. Former Manchester United teammate Wes Brown has suggested that the 40-year-old superstar could continue playing for Portugal beyond the 2026 World Cup, keeping the door open for Euro 2028.
Ronaldo has indicated that the 2026 World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will likely be his sixth and “final” FIFA tournament. However, with his current contract at Al-Nassr running through 2027, there’s no definite retirement date in sight.
Retirement Not On Ronaldo’s Mind Yet
Brown, speaking exclusively to GOAL in association with BetWright casino, explained why Ronaldo could still be an asset for the national team:
“If he can bring something to the squad, why not pick him? Does that mean he has to play every game? Look at the last competition, everyone was saying he shouldn’t play but he did okay. He knows the press will give him stick if he doesn’t score or assist. At the same time, he’s there for his younger teammates and wants them to do well. In his mind, he won’t be finished yet and can still contribute. He’s still got the energy, the same belief, and can still do it.”
Ronaldo Still Chasing International Glory
While Ronaldo has often claimed that a World Cup isn’t necessary to cement his legacy, Brown believes the Portuguese star still has a burning desire to complete his medal collection.
“He will want to win one! This is probably his last chance. He has a really good team. Any footballer dreams of winning the World Cup as a kid. Ronaldo doesn’t need it to prove himself, but he really would want to win it. It will be difficult, but it’s definitely on the agenda,” Brown said.
Euro 2028 Could Be On The Horizon
With no confirmed retirement from international football and his Al-Nassr contract through 2027, Ronaldo could potentially extend his career to feature in Euro 2028, adding yet another chapter to his record-breaking career.
Whether he will achieve that elusive World Cup crown remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Ronaldo’s competitive spirit and desire to succeed remain undiminished as he approaches the twilight of his legendary career.
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