2026 World Cup: a new rule that won't please everyone

The 2026 World Cup and FIFA are set to shake up the rules, introducing a yellow card reform designed to avoid suspensions at decisive moments.

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, FIFA is preparing a major change to its disciplinary regulations. According to The Athletic, a reform aimed at rethinking the management of yellow cards is expected to be approved soon.

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The proposed system introduces two stages for wiping out bookings: the first at the end of the group stage, and the second after the quarter-finals. The goal is clear: to prevent the accumulation of yellow cards from forcing teams to do without their key players during the knockout phase.

With the expanded format to 48 teams and an additional round, this measure aims to maintain sporting balance and provide greater continuity for squads. It's a strategic adaptation that should logically please managers as they approach the tournament's crucial matches.

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

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Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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