Fifa is set to revise rules regarding yellow card accumulations for the 2026 World Cup, according to Sky Sports. The proposed changes aim to reduce the risk of players missing the final due to bookings received in earlier rounds. Under current regulations, players receive a one-match ban if they collect two yellow cards before the semi-final stage.
The governing body is expected to implement an amnesty after the quarter-final matches. This adjustment ensures that all cautions are cleared before the semi-finals, per Reuters. Consequently, a player could only miss the final if they receive a red card during the semi-final fixture itself.
Similar measures were utilised during previous international tournaments to ensure the highest-profile players remain available for the showpiece event. Officials believe the move will protect the integrity of the final. Fifa has yet to release the full updated disciplinary code for the 48-team competition, but sources suggest the proposal has broad support among member nations, per The Athletic.
