IFAB Clarifies VAR Protocol for Set-Piece Fouls Ahead of 2026 World Cup

The International Football Association Board (IFAB), the body responsible for the laws of the game, has released a crucial clarification to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) protocol. This update is designed to address specific infractions occurring before the ball is put into play during set-piece situations, such as corners and free-kicks, and will be implemented for the first time at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Key Changes to VAR Protocol

The core of the clarification focuses on fouls committed by the attacking team prior to the execution of a set-piece, which have a direct impact on the subsequent play, potentially leading to a goal, a penalty, or a disciplinary action. Previously, the VAR’s intervention in such scenarios was less clearly defined, sometimes leading to confusion or missed opportunities to correct clear injustices.

Under the new directive, if a VAR official identifies a clear foul by an attacking player before the ball is in play – for example, if a player pushes an opponent while the ball is out of play before a corner is taken and this action directly influences the ability to defend – they are mandated to notify the on-field referee. This notification will trigger a review by the referee at the pitchside monitor.

Consequences of Infractions

If the referee, after reviewing the incident, determines that a foul did indeed occur before the ball was in play and that it had a direct consequence on the game (such as preventing a defender from marking an attacker effectively, leading to a goal), the established disciplinary measures will be applied. This could involve awarding a free-kick or corner to the defending team and issuing the offending player with a yellow or red card, depending on the severity of the foul.

Crucially, this clarification aims to prevent goals that are scored as a result of an unfair advantage gained through pre-play infringements. The IFAB emphasizes that the goal will not stand if it is a direct consequence of such a foul, and the set-piece will be retaken.

Limitations of the Clarification

It is important to note that this clarification does not extend to all pre-play infractions. The IFAB explicitly states that it does not cover situations where a throw-in is taken from an incorrect position or if the ball is not placed within the quarter-circle for a corner kick. The focus remains on fouls with a direct impact on the game’s outcome or disciplinary decisions.

The IFAB will review the effectiveness of this clarification following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Based on the outcomes and feedback, a decision will be made regarding its broader application in future football matches.

Why This Matters for Football Fans

This adjustment to the VAR protocol is significant for football enthusiasts and stakeholders alike. It promises to bring greater consistency and fairness to the game, particularly in high-stakes matches like those in the World Cup. By ensuring that goals are not scored as a result of unfair play that occurs before the ball is officially in play, the IFAB is reinforcing the principles of sporting integrity. Fans can expect a more equitable officiating experience, where clear infractions, especially those that directly influence goal-scoring opportunities from set-pieces, are identified and corrected.

The inclusion of Argentine referees Facundo Tello, Darío Herrera, and Yael Falcón Pérez, along with VAR official Hernán Mastrángelo, in the World Cup contingent underscores the global reach and importance of these rule clarifications. Their participation highlights the ongoing evolution of football officiating and the critical role of technology in ensuring fair play.

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Fuente: Ole – https://www.ole.com.ar/mundial/mundial-2026/ifab-var-futbol-mundial_0_MnJmaeSYxm.html