The rule FIFA wants to change during the World Cup

Right in the midst of the 2026 World Cup, FIFA is considering an unprecedented rule change. The organization led by Gianni Infantino could alter the penalty shootout protocol even before the start of the knockout stages.

FIFA may be about to shake up one of the rules of penalty shootouts... in the middle of the 2026 World Cup. According to reports from The Sun and The Times, the global football body is thinking about changing the draw procedure before the knockout matches, which kick off as soon as this Sunday.

See also: World Cup 2026: The United States makes a concession for Iran

Currently, two coin tosses are held: the first determines which goal will be used for the shootout, while the second decides which team will shoot first. However, FIFA and IFAB are now considering a single draw. The winner would choose either which side of the field or the order of shooters, with the other decision going to their opponent.

This push for change is driven by concerns over fairness. Global football officials were particularly struck by the recent Champions League final, where Arsenal lost both coin tosses. A decision could be made in the coming days, paving the way for a rule change in the middle of the World Cup.

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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