VAR Review Announced with New World Cup Rules

The International Football Board (Ifab) is conducting a comprehensive two-year review of the video assistant referee (VAR) system to ensure it is utilized to its optimal capacity. The announcement, made on Saturday, coincides with several rulebook enhancements being introduced prior to the upcoming World Cup, notably expanding VAR's scope to include determining corner kicks.

Another significant proposal aims to fast-track punishments for players obscuring their mouths during matches, potentially implemented at this summer's tournament. This measure follows the alleged racist abuse directed at Vinícius Júnior by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni, highlighting football's ongoing efforts to address discriminatory behavior.