Gary Neville, the former Manchester United and England defender, has praised FIFA for introducing several rule changes for the 2026 World Cup, describing them as 'pretty good introductions' that will enhance the fan experience. The tournament kicks off on Thursday evening with co-hosts Mexico facing South Africa, while the United States play their opener early Saturday. England, tipped as contenders, begin their campaign against Croatia on Wednesday.
Key Rule Changes
FIFA has implemented a '10-second substitution' rule, requiring substituted players to leave the pitch at the nearest exit within 10 seconds. Failure to comply means the incoming player must wait a full minute before entering. Neville called this 'unbelievable,' noting it eliminates slow walking off the field. Japan benefited from this rule in a warm-up match, scoring a winner when Iceland was down to ten men due to a delayed substitution.
Additional Rules
- VAR Adjustments: VAR can now intervene on incorrectly awarded corner kicks, fouls before play starts, and second yellow cards leading to reds.
- Mouth Covering Ban: Players cannot cover their mouths during confrontational situations with opponents or officials.
- Protest Red Card: Any player leaving the pitch in protest will be shown a red card.
- Five-Second Restart: Goal-kicks and throw-ins must be taken within five seconds, or possession is reversed.
- Hydration Breaks: One three-minute break per half for hydration.
- Injury Rules: Goalkeeper injuries cannot be used for tactical instructions; outfield players treated must leave for one minute.
Neville also backed the five-second restart rule, saying, 'The amount of time taken in the Premier League is frustrating. This will speed up the game.' Ian Wright supported the mouth-covering ban, stating it helps prove allegations of abuse. However, Roy Keane questioned the timing, given the expected heat in venues. 'Players will want to slow the game down in tough conditions,' he said.
Overall, Neville and the panel largely supported the changes, though Keane raised practical concerns. The 2026 World Cup promises a faster, fairer game for fans worldwide.
